In Johannesburg, around 100 protesters from the Mining-Affected Communities United in Action (MACUA) gathered to express their concerns over Anglo American's perceived withdrawal from South Africa. The activists argue that the mining giant is abandoning its commitments to the communities affected by its mining operations without fulfilling its environmental and social obligations. They criticize the company's actions in light of its continuous asset sales and restructuring decisions.

Anglo American has been reducing its operations in South Africa, leading to claims that it is engineering an exit from the country. The proposed merger with Canadian company Teck Resources is seen as a potential move that would lead to the relocation of its headquarters, further fueling discontent among activists. They assert that such decisions are not merely commercial but part of a broader pattern of extractive exploitation that has persisted for over a century, causing harm to local communities and their environments.

The company's dismissal of the claims as 'disinformation' raises questions about its commitment to community welfare and transparency. As MACUA continues to vocalize its dissent, the narrative around Anglo American's corporate practices highlights a critical dialogue about corporate responsibility, environmental justice, and the socio-economic impact of mining operations in South Africa.