Jacinta Ngobese-Zuma Slams Ramaphosa’s Immigration Plan as Tensions Rise Ahead of June Deadline
As South Africa edges closer to a contentious immigration deadline that has intensified national debate, activist Jacinta Ngobese-Zuma has launched a scathing attack on President Cyril Ramaphosa’s latest proposals to tackle illegal immigration, arguing that the government’s strategy is disconnected from realities on the ground.
Speaking shortly after Ramaphosa’s national address from the Union Buildings on Sunday, the co-founder of the March and March movement accused the President’s advisers of failing him and the country.
According to Ngobese-Zuma, the measures announced by Ramaphosa are unlikely to make a meaningful impact on what she describes as a growing immigration crisis.
“The President needs to go back to the drawing board and understand how most of the things he is suggesting won’t even work,” she said.
Her criticism comes at a politically sensitive moment, with immigration once again emerging as one of the country’s most divisive and emotionally charged issues.
‘See It for Yourself’
Ngobese-Zuma urged Ramaphosa to step away from briefing documents and official reports and instead witness conditions firsthand.
She called on the President to visit Home Affairs offices, Border Management Authority facilities, border posts and refugee centres before proposing solutions.
The activist argued that only direct exposure to the challenges facing frontline officials would provide the understanding needed to formulate effective interventions.
Her remarks reflect growing frustration among groups that believe government responses have failed to keep pace with increasing public concerns over border security, service delivery pressures and unemployment.
Ramaphosa Promises Tougher Enforcement
In his address, Ramaphosa reaffirmed the government’s commitment to identifying and deporting undocumented foreign nationals.
The President also pointed to the role of certain private companies, accusing some employers of contributing to the problem by disregarding labour laws and creating incentives for undocumented migration.
Among the key measures announced were plans to establish dedicated immigration courts and recruit an additional 10,000 labour inspectors across the country.
Government believes these interventions will strengthen enforcement mechanisms, improve compliance and accelerate immigration-related legal processes.
However, critics remain unconvinced, arguing that structural weaknesses within immigration and border management systems require far more comprehensive reforms.
Countdown to a Controversial Deadline
The debate has become increasingly urgent as South Africa approaches a self-imposed 30 June 2026 deadline set by organisations such as the March and March movement for undocumented foreign nationals to leave the country.
The deadline has already generated significant attention and heightened tensions in several communities.
Reports indicate that some immigrants from Mozambique, Malawi and Ghana have already left South Africa amid growing uncertainty and concern about what may unfold in the coming weeks.
For supporters of the movement, the deadline represents a demand for stronger border controls and decisive action against illegal immigration. For critics, it raises fears of escalating tensions and potential vigilantism.
A Nation Deeply Divided
Ngobese-Zuma and her movement have become prominent voices in campaigns calling for stricter immigration enforcement and large-scale deportations.
The group argues that illegal immigration places additional strain on public services, worsens unemployment and contributes to crime.
Government, however, has repeatedly warned against any form of vigilante action, stressing that all immigration enforcement must take place within the framework of the Constitution and the rule of law.
As the June deadline draws nearer, the dispute highlights the widening divide between activists demanding immediate action and a government attempting to balance enforcement with constitutional obligations.
With emotions running high and pressure mounting on all sides, South Africa’s immigration debate appears set to become even more intense in the weeks ahead.
