Johannesburg – South Africans have taken to the streets, demanding President Cyril Ramaphosa step down following his government’s controversial decision to grant Nigerians a 5-year visa policy.
Protesters argue that the policy, announced as part of a bilateral agreement with Nigeria, will exacerbate unemployment and strain public services. “This decision puts South Africans last,” a protester in Pretoria exclaimed, calling it an affront to local citizens.
Political analysts warn that the backlash could jeopardize Ramaphosa’s political stability as opposition parties capitalize on the growing discontent.
Meanwhile, the presidency defends the policy, describing it as a strategic move to foster economic ties between Africa’s two largest economies. However, critics maintain that the government must prioritize South Africans’ interests before extending privileges to foreign nationals.
As tensions rise, all eyes are on Ramaphosa’s next move to address the uproar and restore public trust.