Pretoria – The Portfolio Committee on Home Affairs has called for the urgent implementation of President Cyril Ramaphosa’s directives on illegal immigration, saying government departments must act swiftly to ensure the announced measures are fully carried out.
President Ramaphosa spoke to the nation on Sunday against the backdrop of rising tensions over illegal immigration and mounting demands for undocumented migrants to be removed from the country.
Committee chairperson Mosa Chabane said the President’s address provided a “clear and comprehensive” framework for strengthening immigration enforcement, securing borders, and addressing corruption within the system, particularly amid rising public concern over undocumented migration.
“We welcome the clear and comprehensive directives issued by the President… A failure to implement these measures will undermine the authority of the Head of State,” Chabane said.
The committee said it fully supports the President’s approach, warning that delays or weak implementation would weaken state authority at a time of heightened tensions over illegal immigration and increasing calls for undocumented migrants to leave the country.
President @CyrilRamaphosa makes it clear that unlawful actions, violence, intimidation, xenophobia and the spread of misinformation have no place in South Africa.
Only authorised law enforcement agencies may act against violations of the law, and all people must be treated with… pic.twitter.com/8IMNXnzi8I
— The Presidency 🇿🇦 (@PresidencyZA) June 7, 2026
Ramaphosa’s address outlined a package of measures including tighter border controls, improved enforcement of immigration laws, intensified anti-corruption efforts, and greater coordination with African countries on migration-related challenges.
Chabane said law enforcement agencies must step up enforcement of immigration laws, stressing that corruption has significantly undermined the system.
“Corruption is a cancer that erodes both the spirit and the intent of our immigration laws,” he said, adding that tackling it would improve enforcement and restore public confidence.
He also backed the President’s call for regional engagement, noting that migration is linked to broader socio-economic and developmental challenges across the continent and requires a coordinated response.
President @CyrilRamaphosa reaffirms that government’s approach to migration is guided by the Constitution, the rule of law and respect for human dignity.
Every person in South Africa is expected to comply with the law, while the rights of all who live in the country must be… pic.twitter.com/YmFmy2TACx
— The Presidency 🇿🇦 (@PresidencyZA) June 7, 2026
“What is critical is a coordinated, government-wide response aimed at enforcing the immigration laws that are already in force,” he said.
The committee further supported plans to increase the number of labour inspectors in the Department of Employment and Labour and immigration officers in the Department of Home Affairs, saying these measures would improve compliance and enforcement capacity.
Chabane also welcomed the expanded use of technology, including drones, to strengthen border security and prevent illegal crossings, while noting that funding constraints continue to limit the Border Management Authority’s effectiveness.
He further highlighted the importance of improved cooperation with the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure to develop and maintain border infrastructure, saying stronger ports of entry and border installations are essential to preventing illegal crossings and strengthening border management.
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu
