Jacinta MaNgobese Zuma has expressed disappointment with President Cyril Ramaphosa following his address on illegal migration and border management.
Reacting to the President’s remarks, MaNgobese Zuma said she believes those advising Ramaphosa are doing him a “huge disservice” and argued that many of the proposed solutions would not adequately address the realities on the ground.
According to MaNgobese Zuma, the President should spend more time engaging directly with institutions at the centre of the immigration system, including Department of Home Affairs, the Border Management Authority, border posts and refugee reception centres, before formulating solutions.
She argued that a deeper understanding of the practical challenges facing immigration authorities is necessary if government hopes to effectively address illegal migration.
MaNgobese Zuma also criticised what she perceives as an attempt to frame the issue as political or tribal in nature, saying the debate should instead focus on the realities facing communities and the effectiveness of immigration management systems.
Her comments come as South Africa continues to grapple with intense public debate over illegal migration, border security and the enforcement of immigration laws.
The President’s address has generated mixed reactions, with some supporting government’s proposed interventions while others argue that stronger or different measures are needed.
