WATCH | ANC rejects xenophobia claims, says small group shouldn’t define SA

ANC

Pretoria – The African National Congress (ANC) has rejected suggestions that recent anti-immigrant actions in South Africa reflect widespread xenophobic sentiment among citizens, insisting that the country’s challenges with illegal immigration must be addressed through lawful processes rather than hatred.

Speaking amid growing tensions over immigration and reports of anti-migrant protests in several parts of the country, ANC Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula said the actions of a small group of individuals should not be used to characterise South Africans as xenophobic.

“Many people come to our country and contribute positively to the wealth of our country and its progress,” Mbalula said.

“There are people in our country who have taken it upon themselves to do things which the vast majority do not condone and this must not paint South Africans as xenophobic.”

His remarks come as South Africa faces increased scrutiny over anti-immigrant demonstrations and tensions surrounding undocumented migration. The issue has dominated public discourse in recent weeks, with some groups demanding stricter enforcement of immigration laws and the removal of undocumented foreign nationals.

Mbalula acknowledged that illegal immigration remains a challenge for South Africa but stressed that it is not unique to the country.

“Indeed, we do have a challenge of illegal immigration in South Africa and it’s not a problem unique to South Africa. There are many countries affected by this,” he said.

The ANC leader emphasised that South Africa’s response must remain consistent with its international obligations, noting that the country is a signatory to the United Nations refugee and migration conventions.

“We must deal with this challenge within the parameters of the law. We can’t deal with it with hatred,” Mbalula said, adding that government has already adopted an action plan to address illegal immigration, which has been publicly outlined by President Cyril Ramaphosa.

The ANC has repeatedly called for calm and urged communities to allow law enforcement agencies to handle immigration-related matters.

“We have made it very clear as the ANC that we cannot and should not be associated with anything that amounts to hate crimes,” Mbalula said.

The comments also reflect growing concern within government and the governing party that incidents targeting foreign nationals could damage South Africa’s international reputation and strain relations with neighbouring countries.

Public concerns

Mbalula invoked the country’s liberation history, highlighting the role played by several African nations in supporting the anti-apartheid struggle.

“The majority of South Africans are people of Ubuntu and humanity,” he said. “We too would not be free without the solidarity and assistance of countries such as Mozambique in the fight against apartheid.”

He paid tribute to late Mozambican president Samora Machel and other liberation fighters who supported South Africa’s struggle against apartheid, saying many sacrificed their lives in the pursuit of freedom.

The ANC’s intervention comes as authorities continue to grapple with balancing public concerns over undocumented migration, pressure for stricter border controls and the need to uphold constitutional protections and international human rights obligations.

Government has maintained that immigration enforcement must be conducted within the law and has warned against vigilante actions targeting foreign nationals.

Meanwhile, calls for comprehensive immigration reform continue to grow as South Africa confronts high unemployment, strained public services and increasing pressure on border management systems.

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