By: Pamella Majola
Trade union federations Cosatu and Saftu have responded to President Cyril Ramaphosa’s national address on illegal immigration, broadly supporting his call for an end to xenophobia while highlighting the need for decisive action to address the underlying causes of migration and violence against foreign nationals.
Addressing the nation on Sunday evening, Ramaphosa stressed that South Africa’s economic challenges are not caused by foreign nationals, but rather by the country’s inability to grow the economy, create jobs and reduce poverty. He also condemned acts of violence, intimidation and xenophobia directed at migrants and foreign nationals.
Cosatu spokesperson Zanele Sabela welcomed the President’s stance, saying violence and hostility towards foreign nationals would not solve South Africa’s social and economic problems.
Sabela said a key aspect of Ramaphosa’s response was government’s commitment to working closely with countries in the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and across the continent to address the factors driving migration.
“The crucial part of the response detailed by Ramaphosa is the plan to work closely with countries in the SADC region and on the continent to address factors that drive migration, including conflict, economic failure and poverty,” said Sabela.
Meanwhile, Saftu called for the immediate arrest and prosecution of all those responsible for acts of intimidation, assault, extortion, vigilantism and violence against foreign nationals in South Africa.
Saftu spokesperson Asive Dyani said authorities must act decisively against individuals and groups involved in unlawful activities targeting migrants.
According to Dyani, failure to enforce the law creates a dangerous perception that certain vigilante formations enjoy political protection and are able to operate with impunity.
“We reject xenophobia, Afrophobia, racism, sexism, tribalism and all forms of intolerance. We must work together as all sectors of society to address the challenges we face.
Saftu agrees with this position and emphasises that it must now be translated into concrete enforcement measures and accountability,” said Dyani.
Both labour federations reiterated the importance of addressing migration-related challenges within the framework of the law while promoting social cohesion and protecting the rights and dignity of all people living in South Africa.
