A coalition of Zimbabwean migrants has publicly accused the South African government of playing a part in the political and social turmoil that forced millions of Zimbabweans to seek refuge abroad. The group insists that Pretoria must accept responsibility for hosting those displaced.

The Concerned Zimbabwean Citizens in the Diaspora, representing Zimbabwean migrants, voiced their concerns in a petition addressed to Operation Dudula, a South African vigilante group known for its anti-migrant stance. The petition was also sent to Zimbabwe’s ruling party Zanu-PF, South Africa’s ANC, and other organizations implicated in xenophobic violence targeting Zimbabweans.

The coalition expressed deep pain and a desire for justice, emphasizing that the mass exodus of Zimbabweans since 2000 was driven by dire circumstances rather than choice. They placed significant blame on Zanu-PF for orchestrating violence during Robert Mugabe’s presidency, highlighting President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s role in the repression during his time as Mugabe’s deputy. The group also criticized regional entities like the Southern African Development Community (SADC) for their lack of intervention.

Specifically, the petition recalled former South African President Thabo Mbeki’s controversial dismissal of Zimbabwe’s crisis, noting that Mbeki, tasked with monitoring the situation, famously denied the existence of a crisis despite widespread violence following the 2008 elections. The coalition detailed the aftermath, pointing to over 360 deaths, destruction of homes, and shattered families, attributing the violence to Mugabe’s determination to cling to power with the backing of regional allies.

The migrants made clear that their flight was not out of cowardice but because their own leaders had effectively declared war upon them. They charged South Africa and neighboring countries with enabling Mugabe’s regime, which contributed to a brain drain as many skilled Zimbabweans sought safety and opportunity overseas.

In conclusion, the coalition directly addressed South Africans and Operation Dudula, acknowledging the xenophobic hostility they face, including threats, denial of healthcare, and targeted violence, and called for an end to such attacks.

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