Maseru, May 07 — With the ongoing protests in some parts of South Africa targeting foreign nationals, the High Commission of the Kingdom of Lesotho has strongly advised all Basotho residing in the neighbouring country to exercise a high degree of caution.
In its statement, the High Commission strongly urged Basotho to avoid areas where protests or demonstrations may be taking place and limit non-essential travel during periods of high tension, further encouraging them to carry their valid identification and relevant documentation at all times.
Moreover, the High Commission emphasized that in the event of any incident or emergency, Lesotho nationals must report such to the South African Police Services (SAPS) and to inform the High Commission in Pretoria as well as Lesotho Consulates in Johannesburg, Durban, Klerksdorp and Welkom for appropriate assistance.
The High Commission remains available to provide support
Meanwhile on Monday hundreds of Basotho under the banner of an organization called “Hands off Basotho” marched in protest to the embassy in Pretoria demanding that the embassy must come to their aid on various issues that they encounter in South Africa as foreigners. They decried about the passive attitude shown to them by the embassy.
Founder and President of Hands-Off Basotho organization, Mr. Justice Semenyane said the Lesotho embassy in South Africa does not care about the Basotho nationals as Basotho get killed; are arrested illegally and imprisoned for more jail time than that for which they have been sentenced.
South African lawmakers are stepping up efforts to address a renewed surge in xenophobic violence as attacks on foreign nationals raise concerns about public safety, economic stability and the country’s role within Africa.
The affected nationals include those from Zimbabwe, Nigeria, Mozambique and the Democratic Republic of Congo, many of whom have lived and worked in South Africa for years.
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