IFP leader and Minister of Cooperative Government and Traditional Affairs, Velenkosini Hlabisa, has called for the better management of the country's illegal immigration challenges.
Image: IFP / X Account
Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA) and leader of the IFP, Velenkosini Hlabisa, has voiced grave concerns regarding the escalating crisis of illegal immigration in South Africa.
Speaking during an address commemorating the 32nd anniversary of Freedom Day in Westonaria, on the West Rand, Hlabisa highlighted the mounting protests across the nation, warning that the situation could soon reach a breaking point.
"The issue of illegal immigration in our country has reached a tipping point, as we can see the marches and protests that are happening throughout our country. We are just at a tipping point where this problem is going to explode," he stated.
Hlabisa said that, despite the IFP being part of the Government of National Unity (GNU), the party holds strong views about the challenge brought by illegal immigration, adding that those who do not have specialised skills should go back to their countries of origin.
"The thing that we are going to pursue, as we are part of the GNU, is to manage migration humanely and strategically. I am sure you are all aware of the issue of illegal migrants in our country. What is good about being part of the GNU is that we maintain our view that undocumented foreign nationals, with no specialised skills, in South Africa, must go back to their respective countries," he added.
Hlabisa's sentiments were also echoed by President Cyril Ramaphosa during his Freedom Day address in the Free State on Monday. Despite emphasising the importance of the spirit of ubuntu, Ramaphosa urged illegal immigrants to respect South African. However, he warned South Africans against taking matters into their own hands.
"We say to those who are here legally, respect us as South Africans, respect our laws, conventions, and our traditions, as you would want us to respect the laws and traditions of your own countries," Ramaphosa stated.
Hlabisa also stated that the full promise of freedom remains unrealised as the fruits of freedom remain incomplete for millions who wake up each day to hunger, fear, and despair.
"The people of South Africa have fought for more than the right to vote. They fought for a South Africa anchored in dignity, equality, and opportunity. A nation where freedom is a reality in every township, in every town, and in every rural area. A promise where a promise of a decent life belongs to every child," he stated.
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