Justice Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi has suggested that Israel may have had an interest in undermining South Africa through the recent March and March anti-illegal immigration protests, linking the issue to South Africa’s high-profile case against Israel at the International Court of Justice (ICJ).
Speaking on the matter, Kubayi argued that South Africa’s decision to take Israel to the ICJ over allegations related to the war in Gaza has elevated the country’s international profile and placed it at the centre of a wider geopolitical contest.
While she stopped short of directly accusing Israel of organising or funding the demonstrations, and did not provide evidence to support the allegation, Kubayi said it would be “naive” to assume that powerful global interests would not seek to weaken South Africa’s credibility on human rights issues.
Her remarks come amid growing debate over the March and March protests, which have focused on illegal immigration and have drawn both support and criticism across the country. The demonstrations have also sparked concerns about xenophobia, social tensions and political mobilisation.
Critics have questioned the basis of Kubayi’s comments, arguing that allegations involving foreign influence should be supported by evidence, while supporters say her remarks reflect the complex international pressures South Africa faces following its ICJ case.
Distinguished Professor of Sociology at the University of Johannesburg, Professor Patrick Bond, unpacked the political and geopolitical implications of Kubayi’s claims.
Photo: @SAgovnews/X
