South African citizens march for voluntary departure of undocumented migrants, sparking debate on immigration policies and government response
- The South African citizens call for a 30-day ultimatum for illegal immigrants to exit the country
- The government is yet to respond on the proposed memorandum
A group of South African citizens took to the streets on May 02,2025, marching from Pieter Roos Park in Parktown to the Gauteng Legislature in Marshalltown – demanding that government give undocumented migrants a 30-day ultimatum to exit South Africa, sparking a heated debate on immigration policies.
The peaceful protesters, organised by a group of concerned citizens, cited concerns over the impact of undocumented migration on the country’s resources, jobs, and infrastructure.
“We are not against migrants who come to our country legally and contribute to our society,” said Edwin Masina one of the march organizers.
“However, we cannot continue to bear the burden of undocumented migrants who strain our systems and take advantage of our generosity,” he added.
One of the citizens emphasized concerns on the job competition, crime and safety. “Besides the immigrants selling drugs and kidnapping people, we are also facing an issue of unemployment because illegal immigrants are taking our jobs, graduates are staying at home without jobs.”
The government has yet to respond officially to the call for a 30-day ultimatum. However, officials from the Department of Home Affairs have previously stated that the government is working to strengthen its immigration policies and crack down on undocumented migration.
Immigration experts say that the issue is complex and requires a multifaceted approach.
Dr Nokhutula Khuzwayo, an immigration expert said, “We need to address the root causes of migration, such as poverty and lack of opportunities in migrants’ home countries.
“We also need to ensure that our immigration policies are fair, humane, and effective.”
As the march concluded, participants were unable to submit the memorandum to the Gauteng Legislature speaker Ms Morakane Mosupyoe, as she sent a communication stating that she is on leave.
Government is expected to have a meeting with the march organisers on Tuesday May 07,2025.
FEATURED IMAGE: A picture of South African citizens marching to the Gauteng legislature to hand over the memorandum against illegal immigrants. Photo: Nomfundo Zungu
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