Pretoria:The government has intensified its efforts to address illegal migration by partnering with the Zulu royal delegation and civil society organizations. This initiative aims to tackle illegal migration, reclaim hijacked state-owned buildings, and bolster immigration law enforcement.
According to South African Government News Agency, the collaboration follows a meeting between the Inter-Ministerial Committee (IMC) on Migration, chaired by Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development Mmamoloko Kubayi, and a delegation led by iNkosi Malusi Zondi, Chancellor of the Zulu King. The meeting included representatives from the Black Business Forum, Binca Nation, and Hlangana Mzansi.
The engagement comes in response to several marches to Home Affairs offices by groups expressing concerns over illegal migration and immigration law enforcement. Minister Kubayi highlighted the delegation's commitment to working with the government to devise solutions for illegal migration while supporting the creation of a safe, secure, and prosperous nation.
The delegation expressed its respect for South African laws and its intention to foster stability and economic growth. It also raised concerns about unemployment, especially among the youth, and pledged to support efforts to rebuild investor confidence and revive tourism, particularly in KwaZulu-Natal.
A significant issue highlighted was the need for joint efforts to reclaim state-owned buildings that have been illegally occupied or hijacked. The government, along with community leaders, aims to address these unlawful activities, which allegedly include drug dealing and human trafficking.
The IMC is coordinating with provincial and municipal leaders to develop a strategic response to these challenges. Efforts include identifying hijacked buildings and appointing legal representatives to facilitate the removal of unlawful occupants. Additionally, the government is working with the private sector to repurpose abandoned and illegally occupied buildings.
The delegation also showed interest in court proceedings related to migration and asylum seekers, including the Scalabrini case and other judgments regarding the detention of illegal migrants who have applied for asylum. The IMC has requested that these matters be reviewed by a full bench to resolve legal contradictions.
Minister Kubayi reiterated the government's commitment to a five-point plan on migration, focusing on enforcing immigration laws, securing borders, and working with other African nations. The delegation emphasized that enforcing immigration laws should not be seen as xenophobic and expressed a desire to collaborate with the government to build a prosperous South Africa. The meeting concluded with a commitment to work with traditional leaders and other stakeholders to address the issues raised.
Source South African Government News Agency