South Africa protest leader: We do not have history of Kenyans involved in crime
By Aloys Michael, July 4, 2026South Africa protest leader Mchunu has defended Kenyan nationals living in South Africa, saying there is no history of Kenyans being significantly involved in crime in the country, while urging African governments to improve governance so citizens are not forced to migrate in search of better opportunities.
This comes amid heightened public debate over immigration, border security and unemployment in South Africa.
Speaking during an interview on a local TV station on Saturday, July 4, 2026, following recent demonstrations over illegal immigration and crime, Mchunu distinguished Kenyans from other groups he claimed were involved in criminal activities.
“We don’t have a history of Kenyans being involved in crime in this country. That is the truth known by most South Africans,” he said.
His comments appeared to respond to claims made by critics linking foreign nationals to rising crime. Mchunu rejected what he described as false narratives, insisting that Kenyans have generally maintained a positive reputation in South Africa.
The protest leader also reiterated that the demonstrations were conducted peacefully and within the country’s constitutional framework.
“We have been doing this peacefully,” he said, adding that South Africa’s constitutional protections for freedom of expression should serve as an example for other African nations.
“I think it’s now time for the majority of African countries to learn and seek help from the South African government. It allows its own people to exercise their democratic rights and their freedom of expression, and that is very important.”
Call for honest talks
Mchunu argued that South Africa’s democratic institutions offer lessons that could benefit the wider African continent. Rather than focusing solely on domestic issues, he said South Africa should share its governance experience with neighbouring countries.
“We should not only focus on us as South Africans, but we should also make sure that the experience we have, we also share with our sister countries,” he said.
The activist blamed poor political leadership across Africa for driving migration, saying many young people leave their home countries because of economic mismanagement.
“Politicians of Africa are not genuine. Youth of Africa need to have a real talk, not to insist on staying in another country at the expense of your country being destroyed by politicians,” Mchunu said.
He questioned the strength of African economies and currencies, arguing that governments should prioritise economic development and wealth creation to reduce migration pressures.
Mchunu said he intends to engage South African President Cyril Ramaphosa to encourage broader discussions with African leaders through regional and continental bodies, including the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and the African Union (AU).
“I have a dream that one day South African people can have an eagerness to visit any country in Africa without going there to work,” he said. “African leaders must be truthful to their societies so that they can achieve the best in the near future.”