Duduzane Zuma Questions Focus On Africans, Echoes EFF’s Criticism Of Immigration Debate

uMkhonto weSizwe Party (MK Party) First Deputy President Duduzane Zuma has questioned what he describes as the disproportionate focus on Africans in South Africa’s immigration debate, raising an issue that has also featured in criticism from the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF).

Zuma, who was born in Mozambique, posed the question: “Why focus on Africans when there are European?”

His remarks touch on the broader debate about immigration enforcement, the treatment of foreign nationals and whether South Africa’s approach to migration is applied consistently regardless of a person’s country of origin.

The comments come amid growing tensions surrounding anti-illegal immigration demonstrations, including protests organised by movements demanding stronger border controls and the removal of undocumented foreign nationals from the country.

The demonstrations have placed immigration enforcement at the centre of national political discussions, with competing voices debating the impact of migration on employment, public services, crime and economic opportunities.

Zuma’s question challenges those who concentrate their attention on African migrants, asking why people from other parts of the world should not receive similar scrutiny when immigration status is the central concern.

The issue also reflects arguments raised by the EFF, which has frequently criticised what it regards as selective treatment of migrants and questioned the consistency of immigration enforcement.

At the heart of the debate is the distinction between a person’s nationality and their legal immigration status.

South African immigration laws apply to foreign nationals according to their circumstances and the relevant legal requirements, rather than simply whether they come from another African country or from Europe.

Foreign nationals who do not have the required documentation may face immigration enforcement, while those who comply with the law are entitled to have their rights respected.

However, the enforcement of immigration laws must be based on evidence and lawful procedures, not assumptions about individuals based on their appearance, nationality or language.

Zuma’s remarks are likely to resonate with those who believe that public discussions about migration should examine all categories of foreign nationals rather than focus predominantly on African migrants.

The debate also raises questions about how political leaders address public frustration while avoiding generalisations that could contribute to hostility towards particular communities.

South Africa has long maintained economic, social and historical connections with other African countries, while also attracting visitors, workers, investors and residents from Europe and other regions.

Managing these different forms of migration requires government to balance border security, economic interests, international obligations and the rights of people living within the country’s borders.

For political parties, immigration has become an increasingly prominent issue requiring clear positions on enforcement, documentation and the treatment of foreign nationals.

Zuma’s intervention adds another voice to the discussion, challenging the public and political leadership to consider whether immigration concerns are being approached consistently.

Ultimately, the question is not only where foreign nationals come from, but whether immigration laws are being enforced fairly, transparently and without discrimination.

The MK Party deputy president’s comments place that question firmly back in the political debate as South Africa continues to grapple with immigration and social tensions.