"ActionSA Demands Urgent Action on Illegal Immigration from New Home Affairs Minister"

ActionSA Leader Herman Mashaba Urges New Home Affairs Minister to Tackle Illegal Immigration

Johannesburg, South Africa — ActionSA leader Herman Mashaba has called on the newly appointed Home Affairs Minister, Leon Schreiber, to prioritize the issue of illegal immigration in South Africa. In a recent interview with Newsroom Africa, Mashaba expressed his concerns regarding the impact of illegal immigration on the country's drug trade and the illicit flow of goods.

Schreiber's first official act was to extend the temporary visa concessions to safeguard applications from adverse consequences caused by processing delays. However, Mashaba criticized this move, suggesting it allows the system to be manipulated. He pointed out that during his campaign, Schreiber labeled those who opposed illegal immigration as xenophobic, yet his initial focus in office seems to be on legalizing the status of certain immigrants rather than addressing the broader illegal immigration crisis.

Mashaba emphasized the need for a balanced approach, welcoming the formalization of certain immigrants to ensure their identities are known, but urging a more robust crackdown on illegal immigration. He highlighted that illegal immigrants contribute significantly to various issues, including drug trafficking, counterfeit goods, and international crime syndicates.

A Call for Action

Mashaba indicated that ActionSA's representatives in Parliament, including their shadow Home Affairs Minister, already raised concerns with Schreiber. The party insists on a stringent approach to illegal immigration, calling for the establishment of a special unit within Home Affairs and law enforcement agencies to manage and document every person entering the country.

He stressed that South Africa should welcome immigrants with investments, rare skills, or those visiting for tourism, but should not tolerate individuals who bring illicit activities into the country. Mashaba outlined that those here illegally should face deportation through due legal processes, ensuring the sovereignty and safety of the nation.

Addressing Broader Concerns

In addition to illegal immigration, Mashaba also touched on the broader socio-economic impact, stating that the influx of illegal immigrants into the workforce contributes to the high unemployment rate among South Africans. He argued that these immigrants often take jobs in sectors such as retail and hospitality, where many local citizens are struggling to find employment.

Mashaba warned about the potential dangers posed by illegal financial transactions linked to spaza shops (small retail shops) operated by some immigrants, suggesting that these activities could be funding terrorist organizations. He highlighted the importance of monitoring financial flows to prevent South Africa from becoming a failed state prone to terrorist activities.

ActionSA's Position on Political Collaboration

Regarding ActionSA's potential collaboration with other political parties, particularly in Gauteng, Mashaba stated that while his party is open to taking positions like the chair of the Standing Committee on Public Accounts (SCOPA), they would not compromise their principles. He assured that ActionSA would remain a constructive opposition, supporting government initiatives that benefit the country but firmly opposing any corrupt or dubious activities.

In summary, Mashaba's interview underscored ActionSA's commitment to addressing illegal immigration and protecting South Africa's sovereignty and security. His call to Minister Schreiber is clear: prioritize the nation's safety and economic well-being by tackling illegal immigration head-on.