SA Government Won’t Shelter Afghani Refugees

The South African government has declined the request to accommodate Afghani refugees who have sought refuge in Pakistan.

Nearly three weeks ago, the Taliban – an Islamic fundamentalist outfit linked with terrorism, which had previously ruled from 1996 to 2001 – advanced upon Afghanistan’s capital, Kabul, and effectively seized power following the withdrawal of American troops.

On Wednesday, 1 September, Clayson Monyela – a spokesperson for South Africa’s Department of International Relations and Co-operation – released a statement, in which he addressed the request.

Monyela said: “The South African Government [sic] is unfortunately not in a position to accommodate such a request. South Africa is already home to a substantial number of refugees and is seized with addressing their needs. Most of them already benefit from the Social Assistance and free medical health programmes offered by our country.”

He concluded: “In terms of international law, the well-being of the refugees is best served by remaining in the first country of arrival – Pakistan – pending their final destinations.”

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