By By: Staff Writer
DURBAN, South Africa — Liberian nationals in Durban say fear is growing as South Africa prepares for a nationwide anti-foreigner demonstration scheduled for June 30, 2026. The Liberian Community Association in Durban has written to President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, requesting urgent government intervention to protect citizens abroad. In a June 24 letter submitted through the Liberian Embassy in Pretoria, community leaders said the protest has created “significant fear and anxiety” among members.
The association disclosed it submitted a list of community members seeking voluntary repatriation to Liberia three weeks ago, but has received no official response or action from Monrovia. It also formally requested that the Embassy, working with South African authorities, secure a safe gathering facility under police protection for Liberians in Durban on June 30. The group proposed that the Government of Liberia fund a lodge or secure venue for the day, but said no facility has been arranged.
According to the letter signed by Chairman Dominic Tarpeh Doe and Secretary Boley Benson, the only feedback from the Embassy was that the government is “in the process of passing the budget” for the request. With less than a week to the protest date, community leaders said no concrete steps have been taken and apprehension continues to rise. They emphasized that time is critical and decisive action is needed to prevent harm.
The association made three specific appeals: expedite the repatriation request already submitted, immediately secure and fund a safe facility for Liberians to gather under police supervision on June 30, and issue an official communication to calm fears and assure nationals of government support. “We await your swift intervention. The situation is urgent,” the letter stated. The Liberian Embassy in Pretoria has not issued a public statement as of press time.
