Earlier this week, hundreds of unemployed Gauteng residents marched through industrial areas in Ekurhuleni, demanding jobs they claim are being given to undocumented foreign nationals.

• ANC secretary-general Fikile Mbalula stated that South Africa is a constitutional democracy that cannot allow vigilante groups to operate outside the law.
• Mbalula’s remarks follow heightened tensions from March and March movement protests in Durban and Ekurhuleni.
• Mbalula emphasised that “the state must intervene” and lead on immigration matters.

ANC secretary-general Fikile Mbalula says South Africa is a constitutional democracy and cannot allow vigilante groups to operate outside the law.

Speaking on the sidelines of the ANC national executive committee (NEC) meeting on Saturday, Mbalula said the party would reflect on recent developments in the country amid rising anti-immigrant sentiment. He stressed that the ANC’s position remains that the law must guide the country on how such matters are handled.

His remarks follow a week of heightened tensions linked to protests organised by the March and March movement in Durban and Ekurhuleni.

In Durban, protests led by the movement resulted in clashes between foreign nationals and demonstrators. At the same time, more than 500 foreign nationals marched, calling on police to provide alternative shelter after fleeing their homes over fears for their safety.

READ | Over 500 foreign nationals march in Durban, demanding safety

In Ekurhuleni, thousands of residents, led by March and March movement leaders, marched through industrial areas, demanding jobs they claim are being given to undocumented foreign nationals.

The movement has also issued an ultimatum, giving undocumented foreign nationals until 30 June to leave the country.

Mbalula, however, warned against communities taking immigration enforcement into their own hands.

“The state must intervene, that’s what we believe in,” he said.

He added that the NEC would deliberate on the situation and provide a more comprehensive response after its discussions.

Mbalula added:

“That gives us a terrible image that there is no state in South Africa, vigilante groups can do as they wish. So the state must lead; there will be reflection on that, and you will see at the end a more refined approach from the NEC will emerge as part and parcel of this weekend,” said Mbalula.