The government says the largely peaceful protests against illegal immigration have helped restore the country’s image, which had been tainted by misinformation suggesting that South Africa is xenophobic.
On Tuesday, many South Africans took to the streets to call for undocumented foreign nationals to leave the country.
Government Deputy Spokesperson William Baloyi says many people had expected the demonstration to become violent.
He says the peaceful nature of the protests has helped restore investor confidence.
“Brand SA, as the image of the country towards the buildup of the 30th was getting a hammering … the brand was damaged and people were expecting a blood bath yesterday, people were expecting a negative atmosphere. But as today we looked at it, we find that now South Africa is back to its position, back to normal. And we think we have regained the stature of South Africa as a vibrant democracy. That’s one thing for sure, but we can exercise our right,” says Baloyi.
Immigration crisis | Concerns over the country’s porous borders:
About the Author
