“We Are The Only Authority That Has The Power To Deal With Illegal Immigration” Ramaphosa Declared

President Cyril Ramaphosa has insisted that the South African government is the only authority empowered to deal with illegal immigration, stressing that the responsibility for addressing the issue rests with the state.

Ramaphosa made the remarks while campaigning for the African National Congress (ANC) in eMagabheni, eThekwini, KwaZulu-Natal, amid continued public debate over illegal immigration and the government’s response to concerns about undocumented foreign nationals in South Africa.

“We as government have said, we are the only authority that has the power, ability to deal with illegal migration,” Ramaphosa said.

His statement reinforces the government’s position that immigration enforcement falls within the responsibilities of authorised state institutions rather than private individuals or groups.

Illegal immigration has remained a contentious issue in South Africa, featuring prominently in political discussions, community protests and debates about border security, employment, public services and the enforcement of immigration laws.

Various communities have raised concerns about undocumented foreign nationals, with some calling for stronger border controls and more effective enforcement of existing legislation. Immigration has also become an important subject in political campaigning, as parties seek to communicate their positions on border management and the government’s handling of migration.

Ramaphosa’s comments come as the ANC campaigns ahead of the local government elections, with issues affecting communities across the country forming part of the party’s engagement with voters.

By emphasising the government’s authority, the president appeared to draw a distinction between lawful immigration enforcement by the state and actions undertaken by individuals or organisations outside established legal processes.

South African law provides for immigration control and enforcement through designated government departments and authorised officials. These responsibilities include implementing immigration legislation, addressing violations and managing the country’s borders.

The issue has also raised questions about how authorities can respond to public concerns while ensuring that the law is applied fairly and consistently. Calls for stronger immigration enforcement have frequently been accompanied by discussions about the need to prevent harassment, intimidation and unlawful actions against people suspected of being in the country without valid documentation.

The government faces the challenge of enforcing immigration laws while maintaining public order and respecting the rights protected under South African law.

Ramaphosa’s remarks place responsibility for addressing illegal immigration firmly on the state, suggesting that the government must exercise its legal authority in dealing with the matter.

However, further details about specific enforcement measures or new policies were not included in the statement provided.

As campaigning continues, immigration is likely to remain part of the wider political conversation, particularly in communities where residents have expressed concerns about border management and the presence of undocumented migrants.

The president’s message in eMagabheni underscores the government’s position that immigration enforcement must be handled by the authorities legally responsible for the task.

Source: https://x.com/ewnreporter/status/2115423615789453411