IFP President Hlabisa Says All Undocumented Immigrants Must Be Deported Along Asylum Seekers

Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) president Velenkosini Hlabisa has called for the deportation of all undocumented immigrants in South Africa, arguing that asylum seekers who pass through several other countries before arriving in the country should also face removal. His remarks came during an election campaign visit to Soweto as political parties intensify efforts to win support ahead of the 2026 local government elections.

Hlabisa’s position places immigration management firmly on the political agenda, with questions surrounding border security, asylum applications and the enforcement of South Africa’s immigration laws expected to feature prominently in campaigning. The IFP leader’s comments reflect growing pressure on political leaders to explain how they intend to address irregular migration while ensuring that the country’s legal obligations are respected.

The IFP has consistently emphasised law enforcement, effective border management and the importance of protecting South Africa’s institutions. Hlabisa’s latest remarks suggest that the party intends to maintain a firm stance on undocumented migration as it seeks to persuade voters that stronger measures are needed to manage immigration.

His comments concerning asylum seekers raise an important distinction between entering a country without legal documentation and seeking international protection. Under South African law, asylum applications must be assessed according to the applicable legal framework, while immigration authorities are responsible for determining whether individuals have complied with the relevant requirements.

The fact that an asylum seeker has travelled through other countries does not, by itself, automatically establish that the person is ineligible for protection. Each case must be considered under the relevant legislation and applicable international obligations. Deportation decisions must also follow lawful procedures.

Nevertheless, the issue remains politically sensitive, particularly in communities where residents raise concerns about employment opportunities, pressure on public services, crime and the enforcement of immigration regulations. These concerns have increasingly featured in public discussions about the government’s ability to control the country’s borders.

For the IFP, campaigning in Soweto provides an opportunity to communicate its position to voters in one of Gauteng’s most politically significant urban areas. The party will need to demonstrate how its proposals could translate into practical policies, including more effective border controls, improved immigration administration and cooperation between relevant government departments.

As the local government election campaign gathers momentum, immigration is likely to remain a contentious subject among competing political parties. Hlabisa’s call for deportations signals the IFP’s intention to pursue a tougher approach, although the implementation of any proposed measures would remain subject to South African law.

Ultimately, the debate will test whether political promises on immigration can be converted into enforceable policies that address public concerns while respecting the rights of people entitled to seek protection.

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