‘End xenophobic violence’

Church leaders have condemned recent violence against foreign migrants in the Durban area, after seven were killed and more than 5,000 others fled their homes, seeking shelter at the city’s Catholic cathedral, police stations and temporary camps, writes Ellen Teague. The Archbishop of Durban, Cardinal Wilfrid Napier, denounced xenophobia, saying that “as a pastor, as a South African and as a resident of Durban, I am utterly shocked and filled with shame by the violence and intolerance that has overtaken our beloved city”. He called on South Africans “to build bridges” and “recognise every person as our neighbour”. Most of those targeted in attacks that have now spread across South Africa are from other African countries.

The violence was sparked by comments made by Zulu King Goodwill Zwelithini against foreigners. He now claims his words were distorted.