Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader Julius Malema has questioned claims that removing African migrants from South Africa would solve the country’s unemployment crisis following the recent repatriation of Ghanaian citizens amid rising xenophobic tensions.

Malema made the remarks during a media interaction in late May 2026 after Ghana evacuated hundreds of its nationals from South Africa over growing safety concerns linked to anti-immigrant protests and attacks.

Ghana Repatriates Citizens Amid Tensions

The Ghanaian government recently organised voluntary repatriation flights for about 300 citizens from South Africa, with more departures expected in the coming days.

The move followed increasing reports of harassment, intimidation and xenophobic violence targeting foreign nationals, particularly migrants from other African countries.

According to reports, nearly 900 Ghanaians registered for evacuation after protests and threats escalated in some communities. South African authorities reportedly stated that only a small number of those repatriated were legally undocumented.

Malema Rejects Anti-Migrant Narrative

Reacting to the development, Malema challenged arguments that foreign nationals are responsible for South Africa’s economic struggles and unemployment rate.

“Because the Ghanaians are gone now, 300 of them. How many 300 jobs were created after the Ghanaians have left?” he asked.

The opposition politician described the narrative blaming migrants for job losses as “a myth” and “a lie,” arguing that such rhetoric only deepens division among Africans and fuels xenophobia.

Malema also criticised Ghana’s decision to rapidly evacuate its citizens, saying the move painted all South Africans negatively and reduced opportunities for diplomatic engagement.

Debate Over Immigration and Unemployment

South Africa continues to battle one of the highest unemployment rates in the world, with economic inequality, poverty and rising crime remaining major concerns.

Recent anti-immigrant demonstrations have seen protesters demand that undocumented foreigners leave the country, with some groups linking migrants to crime and pressure on public services.

However, analysts and rights groups have repeatedly warned against scapegoating migrants for broader structural economic failures, including corruption, weak governance and poor service delivery.

Malema has consistently opposed xenophobic violence, while maintaining that immigration laws should still be enforced legally and peacefully.

Social Media Reactions Intensify

The comments have triggered widespread reactions across social media platforms, with Africans from different countries debating migration, regional unity and economic hardship.

Some users supported Malema’s position, arguing that African countries should focus on unity and economic cooperation rather than division.

Others defended tougher immigration enforcement, insisting that South Africa has a right to control illegal migration and protect local jobs.

The controversy has again highlighted growing tensions between Pan-African ideals promoted under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and frustrations surrounding unemployment and insecurity across the continent.

Diplomatic Concerns Remain

Although both Ghanaian and South African officials have condemned violence and called for calm, concerns remain over recurring xenophobic attacks in South Africa.

Observers say the latest crisis underscores the urgent need for stronger regional cooperation, economic reforms and policies capable of addressing youth unemployment and insecurity across Africa.

The development also raises fresh questions about how African countries can balance migration policies, economic integration and citizen protection without inflaming ethnic or national tensions.

Ghanaians are gone now, 300 of them. How many 300 jobs were created after the Ghanaians left."

~ Julius Malema says to South Africans blaming migrants for job losses pic.twitter.com/zI6DPlwhlE

— Nigeria Stories (@NigeriaStories) May 28, 2026