We, the undersigned organisations representing a broad cross-section of Muslims in South Africa, have noted public calls by a few civic groups for a planned “national shutdown” on Tuesday, 30 June 2026, as a protest against undocumented immigrants residing in the country. This proposed action is supported by a truck drivers’ forum with plans for localised and national route closures. In recent weeks, four political parties have also expressed support for visible actions against undocumented foreign nationals.

We are united in our opposition to the proposed “national shutdown” and to any acts of violence, intimidation or vigilantism directed against peaceful South African citizens or foreign nationals, irrespective of whether they are documented or undocumented. Our opposition stems from our respect for the inherent dignity of all persons and from the fact that recent anti-immigrant mobilisation has displayed increasingly violent and intimidatory tendencies, contributing to instability and fear within communities in several parts of the country.

We are deeply concerned that the campaign against foreigners is increasingly targeting Africans from neighbouring countries, including vulnerable communities seeking safety, shelter and livelihoods in South Africa. Such conduct promotes xenophobia and Afrophobia.

Also, there are growing reports of Muslims in townships being targeted by anti-foreigner campaigners simply because they are wearing Islamic dress codes, thereby fuelling hostility against Muslims and promoting Islamophobia.

We dare not remain silent in the face of mob threats, intimidation and lawlessness. Today it may be one vulnerable group; tomorrow it may be another. The erosion of the rule of law threatens all who live in South Africa.

We affirm that law enforcement, including the administration of immigration policy, is the sole responsibility of the State and its duly authorised agencies, not self-appointed individuals or private groups. At the same time, all administrative actions by members of the South African Police Service and officials of the Department of Home Affairs must be free from corruption, bribery, extortion and abuse of power.

OUR CALL TO MUSLIMS LIVING IN SOUTH AFRICA

1. Muslims should look beyond nationality, race and ethnicity. As believers in Allah, the Almighty, and followers of His beloved Messenger Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him), we belong to a single global community of faith that transcends geographical, racial and ethnic boundaries. The Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) likened the Ummah to one body: when one part suffers, the whole body responds with concern and solidarity. Muslims should therefore stand together and support one another in times of hardship and insecurity.
2. Muslims should not participate in or support the planned “national shutdown” on 30 June 2026.
3. We call upon Muslim religious scholars and mosque leaders to dedicate the Friday congregational sermon on 26 June 2026 to condemning xenophobia, Afrophobia, Islamophobia, vigilantism and unlawful violence.
4. Muslims should not engage in any provocative conduct that may contribute to public disorder or violence, and should report all acts of intimidation, threats and violence to the relevant law enforcement authorities.
5. Muslims should compassionately assist displaced migrants and South Africans in distress through humanitarian, medical, relief and welfare initiatives wherever possible.
6. Muslim businesspersons should engage in fair labour practices.
7. Muslims should refrain from spreading rumours, misinformation and fearmongering, and should verify information before sharing it.
8. Muslims should work with Community Policing Forums and law enforcement agencies to help protect lives, property and places of worship, while promoting peace and social cohesion.
9. Having taken all reasonable precautions, Muslims place their trust in Allah, the Almighty. We ask Allah, the Exalted, to conceal our faults, grant us safety from our fears, protect our communities, and bless our country with peace, justice and stability. There is no power and no strength except with Allah, the Most High, the Most Great.

OUR CALL TO THE SOUTH AFRICAN GOVERNMENT

1. We call on the South African government to investigate, arrest and prosecute those responsible for hate speech, incitement to violence, intimidation and other unlawful conduct that threatens public safety and social stability.
2. We call on the government to eradicate corruption and extortion within the public service and to ensure that applications for visas, work permits, refugee status and asylum are processed transparently, efficiently and professionally by the Department of Home Affairs.
3. We urge the government and the private sector to address the underlying social and economic conditions resulting in poverty, unemployment and joblessness that fuel anti-immigrant sentiment in communities.
4. We further caution that anti-immigration movements around the world have often been exploited by sinister, extremist, racist and exclusionary political forces to sow division, undermine social cohesion and destabilise societies. South Africa must guard against such tendencies and remain committed to its values of human dignity, equality and human rights.

Endorsed on 25 June 2026 by:

1. Afro-Middle East Centre
2. Ahlus Sunnah Media Network
3. Call of Islam
4. Cape Town Ulama Board
5. Cape Town Islamic Educational Centre
6. Centre for Islamic Research – Africa
7. Eastern Cape and Border Muslim Association
8. Imam Development Programme
9. Inqilab Collective
10. Islamic Forum (Durban)
11. Islamic Medical Association of South Africa
12. Juma Musjid Trust (Durban)
13. Media Review Network
14. Muslim Students’ Association Union
15. Muslim Youth Movement of South Africa
16. Uwais Qarni Islamic Centre
17. Palestine Information Network
18. Palestine Solidarity Alliance
19. South African Friends of Palestine
20. South African Muslim Network
21. South African National Muslim Women’s Forum
22. Vaal Muslim Women’s Forum