The South African Council of Churches (SACC) has issued a strongly worded statement condemning the violence against undocumented foreign nationals, while acknowledging the deep frustrations felt by many South Africans.

The SACC has urged compassion without ignoring real community grievances, and rejects scapegoating, violence, and exclusion. It has called on both the Church and the state to act. While the statement offers clear moral direction, it also raises important questions about how these principles will be implemented in practice.

Mpho Sithole spoke to Reverend Mzwandile Molo, General Secretary of the South African Council of Churches.