MASERU, LESOTHO – The Kingdom of Lesotho has officially urged its citizens living in South Africa to contact their embassy and satellite offices if they feel unsafe or wish to return home. This directive, released in a statement on Sunday by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, comes as the government prepares for planned marches against undocumented immigrants, prompting the provision of five buses to the KwaZulu-Natal province to assist with potential repatriations.
While monitoring the border over the weekend, observers noted that movement at the Maseru Bridge was somewhat consistent with normal month-end activity and school closures in South Africa. However, a closer look at the transport ranks revealed a shift in patterns. Although fewer buses were visible in the evening, an increased number of repatriation buses crossed into Lesotho overnight, as drivers typically wait for commuters to cross back. Additionally, the commercial trucking route—typically busy with goods moving from South Africa into Lesotho—was notably empty, indicating heightened caution and restricted cross-border movement.
On the ground, the mood among Basotho nationals varies. While some view the situation as business as usual, others, particularly those operating small spaza shops selling produce in hotspot areas like Bloemfontein and surrounding regions, have expressed fear regarding the upcoming protests. Many of those crossing the border into Lesotho are doing so not just for safety, but to renew their expiring documents and ensure they are legally compliant.
The issue of documentation has been a central point of discussion. Home Affairs officials recently clarified during a briefing that the majority of undocumented foreigners initially entered South Africa legally. Rather than crossing borders illegally or crawling under fences, the issue stems from individuals overstaying their permitted time in the country.
A significant factor contributing to this situation is a lack of visa education. Many Basotho nationals are unaware that the 90-day visitor visa does not grant the right to work or reside permanently in South Africa. Drawn by economic opportunities to make ends meet, many overstay their visas to work in households, factories, or small businesses. When discovered, they are found to be operating on the wrong visas. Government representatives have emphasized the urgent need for further dialogue regarding special permits, which would allow those working as domestic workers or in manufacturing to regularize their status and remain in the country legally.
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