A former member of Parliament for Kumbungu Constituency, Ras Mubarak, has strongly condemned renewed xenophobic sentiments in South Africa, accusing some South Africans of turning against fellow Africans who supported their liberation struggle during the apartheid era.
Speaking of the growing concerns over attacks and hostility toward foreign nationals on Kessben Maakye show, Mubarak described the situation as “embarrassing” and contrary to the ideals of the Protocols, African unity and solidarity championed by the African Union.
“South Africans have turned their backs on fellow Africans who helped them gain independence,” he stated.
According to him, many African countries, including Ghana, made significant sacrifices to support South Africa’s anti-apartheid struggle. He referenced historical accounts made by late President Jerry John Rawlings, reiterated that Ghana offered $1,000,000 cash and humanitarian support to South African liberation movements during difficult periods of resistance in the early 90’s when late President Mandela beckoned on Ghana.
Mubarak argued that some South Africans are reinforcing colonial-era divisions that separated African states through “artificial borders,” instead of promoting continental integration.
He further alleged that unemployment and economic frustrations have fueled resentment toward foreign nationals, accusing some South Africans of unfairly targeting fellow Africans who are living or doing business in the country.
“They are ungrateful and have short memories,” he said, while criticizing what he described as the failure of authorities to decisively address xenophobic violence.
Mubarak also questioned why African migrants should be attacked merely for residing or operating businesses in South Africa, insisting that Africans should feel safe anywhere on the continent.
“Why would you attack fellow Africans in your country for doing business or residing there, even if they overstay their permits?” he queried.
Mubarak further claimed that many young South Africans may not fully appreciate or were not born then to know the role other African nations played in supporting the fight against apartheid, adding that the spirit of Pan-Africanism appears to be fading.
His comments come amid renewed debates across Africa over xenophobia, migration policies, and the need for stronger continental cooperation and protection for African migrants living in other African states.
