South African president warns anti-migrant protesters ahead of deadline

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has warned people intending to protest against migrants to do so without 'intimidation, threats or ultimatums'. The warning comes on the eve of an unofficial deadline for undocumented foreigners to leave South Africa. In recent weeks, several thousand citizens from other African countries have already left, fearing violence.

One undocumented Malawian told the BBC he was 'happy to be going back' but 'heartbroken' to leave behind four young children.

In his weekly newsletter, Ramaphosa reminded citizens that some foreign nationals living in South Africa are there lawfully. They work, study, raise families, invest in the economy and contribute positively to society. They are entitled to protection under the law and the constitution. The right to protest and freedom of expression do not allow for threats, intimidation, vandalism or violence. According to official figures, there are over three million documented foreign nationals in South Africa.

Ahead of the deadline, thousands of migrants have spent weeks in temporary camps, awaiting processing and fearing for their safety. In Durban, which has seen some of the biggest protests, white tents housing mostly Malawians are being dismantled as authorities clear the transit camp. Women in colorful sarongs sat on their belongings, waiting to board buses back to Malawi.

Nelson Mbewe, a Malawian, said he went to South Africa seeking work to support his family, but faced challenges because they were told to go home without proper documents. He mentioned the xenophobic slur 'Makwerekwere'. 'It's their country, so what can we do?' he said.

Another Malawian, Hassan Phiri, still waiting to be processed, urged South Africans to unite: 'We are all one. Africa cannot be Africa without South Africa, without Malawi... we must love each other and stick together as Africa.'

Anti-migrant marches are planned for Tuesday in Durban, Johannesburg and other cities. Authorities have warned organizers to ensure no violence and are prepared for disruption. Police have said traditional weapons are not allowed, which could cause tension as many protesters are ethnic Zulus who typically carry shields, whips and sticks during marches.

Since the wave of protests began this year, more than 12,000 immigrants have been deported or repatriated. Ghana, Malawi, Mozambique, Nigeria and Zimbabwe have organized repatriations by air or bus in recent weeks, with around 3,500 foreigners voluntarily leaving. South African authorities claim that over 500 repatriated Nigerians lacked proper papers, which Nigeria disputes.

Xenophobia has long been an issue in South Africa, sometimes leading to violence. According to the African Centre for Migration and Society's Xenowatch tracker, two people have been killed this year. In 2008, more than 60 people died during rioting against non-South Africans.