Online Reporter
Thupeyo Muleya
Beitbridge Bureau
THE South African government has distanced itself from claims circulating on social media and other platforms that June 30 is the deadline for foreigners to leave the country, saying no such government directive exists.
Speaking during a high-level briefing on migration and regional cooperation last Friday, South Africa’s Home Affairs director-general Dr Tommy Makhode said Pretoria remains committed to enforcing immigration laws, but within the framework of the Constitution and international human rights obligations.
He urged the public to disregard messages suggesting that all migrants were required to leave the country by month-end.
“The 30 June date you are hearing is not a government position,” Dr Makhode said.
“Our Constitution and immigration laws protect the rights of everyone inside South Africa, whether you are a citizen or a migrant.
“Law enforcement must be done in a humane way and in line with global and United Nations conventions.”
His remarks come amid growing tensions in some parts of South Africa over illegal immigration, employment opportunities and pressure on public services, issues that have fuelled anti-foreigner rhetoric and calls for stricter immigration controls.
Dr Makhode said migration was a complex regional issue driven by factors such as poverty, conflict and the search for better economic opportunities.
South Africa, he said, is working with neighbouring countries and regional bodies to address both regular and irregular migration.
“An inter-ministerial team has been set up to deal with migration policy issues. The team coordinates with governments in SADC to manage both regular and irregular migration,” said Dr Makhode.
“South Africa was built by the sweat of migrants before and after apartheid. Migrants work in farms, mines, shops and many sectors, but migration must always be lawful.
“That is how we protect jobs, wages and services for everyone.”
He, however, stressed the need for compliance with immigration laws, adding that 45 percent of the country’s economic activity depended on trade and cooperation with other African nations, making regional collaboration essential.
Because of these economic links, he said, acts of vigilantism and hate directed at foreigners would not be tolerated.
To improve migration management, Dr Makhode said refugee reception centres would be relocated closer to ports of entry to facilitate the processing of asylum seekers.
He also revealed that South Africa was upgrading six land border posts with advanced technology to strengthen border security while ensuring humane treatment of travellers.
In addition, he commended Zimbabwe for progress made in modernising its border infrastructure.
