Former President Kgalema Motlanthe has warned that xenophobic violence and social unrest in South Africa are driven by poor leadership and lack of sustained economic growth.

Speaking at the Motlanthe Foundation’s winter seminar on migration, he highlighted how competition for limited resources and opportunities among impoverished communities is being exploited by 'opportunist and populist' political leaders.

Motlanthe urged central government to act promptly to prevent instability, stating that delayed responses risk allowing 'creepy creatures'—a metaphor for destabilising forces—to fill the void.He acknowledged President Cyril Ramaphosa’s efforts in engaging with anti-illegal foreigner sentiment groups but argued for earlier intervention.

The former president warned that xenophobia, defined as fear of strangers, could escalate to internal conflicts if not addressed, stressing that political stability is crucial for economic recovery.His remarks underscore concerns about the long-term impact of leadership failures on national cohesion and development.