JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA — As South Africa prepares for planned nationwide illegal immigration protests this Tuesday, political parties have adopted sharply contrasting approaches to the demonstrations. While there is broad consensus that border management and immigration laws require strict enforcement, party leaders remain divided on the upcoming marches, balancing public frustration with urgent warnings against vigilantism and xenophobia.
With just days before the planned demonstrations, the government has reiterated that while peaceful protest is a protected constitutional right, Tuesday will remain a normal working day. Authorities have deployed police forces nationwide, issuing strict warnings that any violence, intimidation, or acts of vigilantism will be dealt with swiftly.
Major political formations echo the sentiment that immigration enforcement must remain strictly the responsibility of the state rather than private citizens. African National Congress (ANC) NEC Member Supra Mahumapelo emphasized that the party stands with the government’s call for strict implementation of immigration mechanisms to show that the country remains a caring nation.
However, Mahumapelo drew a firm line against citizen-led enforcement. “The ANC’s stance is against vigilantism and we will not allow vigilantism because vigilantism takes away the rights of other citizens which are enshrined in the constitution for them to be exercised,” he stated.
Similarly, Democratic Alliance (DA) Leader Geordin Hill-Lewis acknowledged the public’s valid frustrations regarding border management but insisted they must be addressed lawfully. Hill-Lewis urged citizens to be well-prepared for the events on the 30th without resorting to chaos.
“Let us actively reject those who are trying to politicize it and trying to actually incite people to be the worst version of ourselves instead of the best version of ourselves,” Hill-Lewis said, calling for a unified, lawful approach to the nation’s challenges.
Taking a firm stance against the demonstrations, the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) has rejected the campaign, warning that it risks fueling xenophobia and urging South Africans to stay away. EFF MP Nqobile Mhlongo cautioned that the actions of protesters will be used by the global community to tarnish the country’s international brand.
Mhlongo argued that chasing fellow Africans “as if they were some dogs” in an unconstitutional and undemocratic manner undermines the nation’s moral authority. “When South Africa speaks on issues of human rights and dignity, our stance must be questioned,” Mhlongo warned, noting that the country would lose its right to advocate for human rights globally if it violates those same principles at home.
Conversely, ActionSA has thrown its full weight behind calls for aggressive measures against illegal immigration. Party Leader Herman Mashaba recently addressed supporters of the March and March movement in Johannesburg, pledging unconditional support for stronger immigration enforcement and the deportation of undocumented migrants.
Mashaba framed the strict immigration crackdown as a necessary measure for the future of the country. “As a country, we’ve reached a stage where these foreigners have shown total disrespect to us,” Mashaba told supporters. Asserting that grassroots actions are vital, he added, “The only way I believe we are going to save this country [is through] actions like this,” emphasizing that the movement is being done for the sake of future generations.
As Tuesday approaches, the contrasting political narratives highlight the complex balance the nation must strike between enforcing immigration laws, upholding constitutional rights, and maintaining social cohesion.
