Illegal foreigners must regularise stay or leave: MK Party after meeting March and March - TimesLIVE
The MK Party has reiterated its stance that undocumented foreign nationals living in South Africa illegally must either regularise their stay or return to their countries of origin.
This comes after party leader Jacob Zuma met with the leadership of the anti-illegal immigration group March and March on Tuesday, where they discussed the issue of illegal immigration.
According to the MK Party, Zuma acknowledged the movement’s work regarding undocumented foreigners and expressed concern about the enforcement of immigration laws. In turn, March and March recognised the party’s contributions to addressing the issue.
“This mutual recognition reflects the importance of dialogue, cooperation and engagement between political organisations and community movements on matters of national interest,” said MK Party spokesperson Sifiso Mahlangu.
Led by Jacinta Ngobese-Zuma, March and March has been at the forefront of nationwide anti-immigration protests calling for stricter border controls and the deportation of undocumented foreign nationals. However, some of these protests have escalated into violence.
Protests escalated after a Constitutional Court ruling that declared key procedural provisions of the Refugees Act unconstitutional and invalid.
The MK Party emphasises that enforcing immigration laws must never become an excuse for xenophobia, discrimination or violence. The dignity and human rights of every individual must be respected
The South African Police Service (SAPS) and the ministry of police filed urgent applications in the Durban high court to restrict March and March demonstrations after previous marches resulted in blockaded roads, damage to property and violent clashes.
The Durban high court subsequently ordered the movement to suspend its demonstrations until November 6. Under the court order, future protests must take place only between 9am and 3-4pm along designated routes, and participants are strictly prohibited from carrying weapons such as sticks, or concealing their faces.
While the March and March movement advocates for immediate deportation, the MK Party has called for a legal process to allow undocumented foreign nationals to either regularise their status or leave the country.
“The MK Party reiterates its position that illegal and undocumented foreign nationals who do not have lawful immigration status in South Africa must regularise their stay or return to their countries of origin through lawful processes,” the party stated.
It further warned against using immigration enforcement to justify violence.
“Issues of unemployment, border security, pressure on public services and the protection of local economic opportunities require decisive and responsible intervention from the government.
“The MK Party emphasises that enforcing immigration laws must never become an excuse for xenophobia, discrimination or violence. The dignity and human rights of every individual must be respected.”
