The African Christian Democratic Party (ACDP) reiterates its position that South Africa is a nation governed by the Constitution and the rule of law. As such, all persons within our borders, whether citizens, legal migrants, asylum seekers, refugees, or undocumented foreign nationals, are subject to the laws of the Republic.
The ACDP recognises and values the significant contribution made by many legal migrants across various sectors of South African society. Thousands of law-abiding foreign nationals contribute meaningfully to our economy, healthcare system, education sector, entrepreneurship, and community development. Their contribution to nation-building should be acknowledged and respected.
We therefore call for the consistent and fair enforcement of South Africa’s immigration legislation. Where individuals are found to be in the country unlawfully, due process must be followed in accordance with the Constitution, the Immigration Act, and applicable international obligations. Any decisions regarding detention, deportation, or regularisation must be undertaken by the relevant authorities and not by private individuals or groups.
In light of calls for action against migrants on 30 June, the ACDP unequivocally condemns any incitement to violence, vigilantism, intimidation, xenophobia, or the forced removal of persons from communities, workplaces, schools, or public facilities. Such actions are unlawful and undermine the very constitutional order that South Africans have worked hard to build.
The ACDP asserts that South Africa cannot afford an unmanaged or ineffective immigration system. The country continues to face severe pressures on scarce employment opportunities, healthcare services, education, housing, and other public resources. It is the competition for these scarce resources that is part of the cause of the current tension in the country. Government has a responsibility to secure the country’s borders, administer immigration laws effectively, and ensure that those entering and residing in South Africa do so lawfully. It is in this regard that government and border officials have failed South Africans.
The ACDP therefore calls on all stakeholders, including government, civil society, community leaders, and citizens, to uphold the rule of law, respect human dignity, reject violence, and support lawful measures that ensure an immigration system that is fair, orderly, and in the best interests of South Africa and all who lawfully reside within its borders.
Lastly, we appeal to churches and faith-based organisations across the country to dedicate time in their services this weekend to pray for peace, wisdom, protection for all communities, and guidance for our country’s leaders, law enforcement agencies, and all those entrusted with maintaining public safety.
