Politics of polarisation
Posted: 8 May, 2024 Filed under: Azwi Netshikulwe, Tsholofelo Nakedi | Tags: African migrants, anti-migrant sentiments, apartheid politics, Corporate Social Responsibilities, electoral advantage, false narratives, hate speech, illegal migration, misinformation, regional instability, South Africa, violence, xenophobia 1 Comment |
Author: Azwi Netshikulwe Researcher – Migration for Development, University of Cape Town |
 |
Author: Tsholofelo Nakedi Community Advocacy Specialist, CSVR |
In recent years, the election period in South Africa has been a sensitive time, and it has, in some instances, exacerbated issues related to xenophobia and negatively impacted social cohesion within communities. This takes place within the context of a country like South Africa that has struggled with a culture of violence, which has its historical roots stemming from colonial and apartheid politics of divide and rule. Consequently, issues related to identity, race, and nationality often surface during election periods, leading to tensions and potential outbreaks of xenophobia. For example, political parties sometimes use divisive language and scapegoating tactics to rally their base and gain electoral advantage. In most cases, this political discourse includes blaming foreigners for unemployment, crime, or other social problems, which can stoke xenophobic sentiments among the South African populace. This is exemplified by the use of xenophobic rhetoric in certain party manifestos, where leaders prioritise addressing illegal migration.
AfricLaw 