KAMPALA — Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni has claimed that South African President Cyril Ramaphosa told him that political opponents of the ruling African National Congress (ANC) were behind recent anti-illegal immigration protests in South Africa.
Speaking to Ugandan nationals returning from South Africa, Museveni said he discussed the issue with Ramaphosa by phone and expressed concern over what he described as xenophobic attacks targeting African migrants.
Museveni said Uganda had stood with the ANC for decades, arguing that Africa’s support played a key role in South Africa’s liberation struggle. He claimed the protests were linked to political forces seeking to damage the ANC’s reputation across the continent.
“From what he told me, it seems they have political problems there,” Museveni said, according to his remarks. “The people behind this xenophobic campaign are enemies of the ANC who wish for the party to lose its reputation around Africa.”
The comments come amid wider debate in South Africa over anti-immigrant mobilisation, with former President Thabo Mbeki and other officials warning that some campaigns against undocumented migrants may be driven by broader political agendas.
South African authorities have previously raised concerns about possible external influence behind some anti-immigration movements, while insisting that immigration challenges require lawful and balanced solutions.
Museveni also said Uganda may seek compensation for citizens who claim their property and businesses were damaged during unrest in South Africa, asking returnees to document their losses.
The issue has highlighted growing tensions over migration, economic pressure, and political narratives surrounding foreign nationals in South Africa.
