Polokwane, Limpopo — A coalition of civic groups in Polokwane has formally challenged provincial leadership to adopt more stringent measures against undocumented migration, submitting a detailed memorandum to the Premier’s Office following a coordinated demonstration.
The march, organized by grassroots movement ‘E-Chaile’ (I tshaile) alongside ActionSA supporters, centered on demands for accelerated enforcement against individuals residing in South Africa without legal documentation. Participants argued that existing federal approaches lack the urgency required to address socioeconomic impacts in local communities.
Mogau wa Modimo, serving as coordinator for E-Chaile, emphasized the group’s collaborative efforts with partner organizations. “We are here to tell the premier’s office that we are asking them to help us with the flooding of illegal immigrants in our country,” wa Modimo stated. He expressed particular concern about urban economic displacement, noting that undocumented migrants have “taken over the microscale economy” in central business areas.
ActionSA representatives reinforced these positions, voicing dissatisfaction with President Cyril Ramaphosa’s recent policy address on migration. Dr. Mike Ramothwala of ActionSA described the presidential remarks as lacking substantive direction. “There was no concrete plan as to how we’re going to deal with illegal immigration in our country,” Ramothwala remarked. He pointed to sector-specific concerns in manufacturing and hospitality, adding that foreign nationals reportedly operate a significant portion of small enterprises in township areas, including salons and spaza shops.
The coalition’s memorandum outlines several actionable requests, foremost among them the prompt removal of undocumented individuals currently residing in Limpopo. The groups have requested an official reply from provincial authorities within 14 days of submission.
Rudzani Murovhi, acting deputy director at the Premier’s Office, received the document on behalf of the provincial administration and committed to delivering a formal response within the two-week window specified by the demonstrators.