South Africa election hit by disinformation surge

South Africa's local election campaign has been overshadowed by anti-immigration protests and a wave of online misinformation. False claims that asylum seekers could vote in the November 4 local elections have spread widely on social media, fueling tensions and anti-foreigner sentiment. AI-generated videos, fake job ads and fabricated election projections have added to concerns. One Johannesburg council candidate became the target of online abuse and false nationality claims, highlighting how digital disinformation is shaping political debate ahead of the vote.