Tensions exploded at the Sherwood Hall Grounds in Durban today as a group of Malawian nationals, armed with sticks, declared that controversial former radio personality Ngizwe Mchunu is not welcome in their community, chanting: “This guy must go, we do not want to see his face here. He must go back.”
The violent scene unfolded when Mchunu, who has been a polarising figure since his vocal involvement in the July 2021 unrest, arrived at the venue for what was expected to be a community engagement. Instead, he was met by a hostile crowd of Malawian residents who had mobilised quickly, brandishing wooden sticks and blocking his path.
Witnesses described a chaotic atmosphere as the group surrounded Mchunu’s vehicle, banging on windows and demanding that he leave immediately. “He is not welcome here,” one Malawian national shouted above the din. “We know his history. He divides people. Go back to where you come from.”
No formal speeches took place, as the confrontation ended before it could begin. Mchunu’s security team reportedly rushed him back into his vehicle and drove away as the crowd jeered and raised their sticks in defiance. No injuries were reported, and police arrived shortly after the scene had dispersed.
The incident underscores the deep mistrust that certain foreign national communities hold toward Mchunu, whom they accuse of having fueled anti-foreigner sentiment during previous political flare-ups. While Mchunu has publicly denied xenophobia allegations, many foreign nationals remain unconvinced.
Local ward councillors have condemned the violence but acknowledged the underlying grievances. “This is not the way to resolve differences,” one official said. “But the anger is real, and leadership must address it before something worse happens.”
Mchunu has not yet issued an official statement regarding the incident. The South African Police Service confirmed that it is monitoring the situation and has opened a case of public violence for further investigation.
