JOHANNESBURG, South Africa — As the country braces for planned nationwide protests, Democratic Alliance (DA) leader Geordin Hill-Lewis has issued a strong appeal for calm, urging citizens not to turn their legitimate anger into hostility or violence against foreign nationals.
Speaking ahead of the upcoming demonstrations, Hill-Lewis acknowledged that South Africans have valid frustrations regarding high unemployment, escalating crime, and challenges with border management. However, he cautioned that these pressing issues must be addressed strictly through lawful processes.
The DA leader warned against allowing the hardships caused by a failing economy to be exploited by bad actors. He stated that certain politicians and vigilantes might attempt to scapegoat foreign nationals and incite violence to advance their own political agendas.
Emphasizing the principles of a constitutional democracy, Hill-Lewis stressed that threats of anarchy and violence are entirely unacceptable. He argued that using intimidation or vigilante tactics under the pretext of tackling illegal immigration severely undermines the rule of law and threatens the nation’s social stability.
According to Hill-Lewis, the enforcement of immigration laws is strictly the responsibility of the state, not mobs, vigilantes, or politicians stoking hatred for electoral gain. He was unequivocal in his stance against citizens taking immigration enforcement into their own hands, stating clearly that no individual or group has the authority to set deadlines for who is permitted to live in the country, nor should anyone be demanding to see another person’s identification papers in the street.
Instead of targeting vulnerable communities, the opposition leader insisted that the national focus must remain on constructive, systemic solutions. He outlined that the government’s priorities should be rebuilding failing state institutions, properly securing the country’s borders, and stimulating economic growth.
To ensure safety during the upcoming marches, Hill-Lewis has called upon all spheres of government, political parties, and law enforcement agencies to collaborate decisively in maintaining peace and order, urging authorities to act firmly to prevent any potential unrest.
