Afrika Mayibuye Movement (AMM) leader Floyd Shivambu has cautioned against efforts to delegitimise ongoing marches against illegal foreign nationals in South Africa, describing the concerns raised as legitimate and widely shared.
Speaking while outlining his party’s plans for upcoming municipal elections, Shivambu said it would be unhelpful for politicians to stand on the sidelines and insult those highlighting the issue. He specifically noted that March and March, along with Ngizwe Mchunu, are voicing concerns that most South Africans have been raising for some time.
Shivambu rejected joining what he called a “band” of those who insult participants in the marches, which have faced accusations of xenophobia. He argued that undocumented foreign nationals create significant challenges for the country.
“It confuses planning, confuses resources,” he said, adding that illegal immigration undermines the provision of services and orderly settlement. He further stated that it affects job creation for South Africans.
Shivambu identified private sector business owners as the primary beneficiaries of illegal immigration in the country. He reiterated that managing immigration properly is essential, describing uncontrolled inflows as problematic under any responsible government.
The Afrika Mayibuye Movement, according to Shivambu, welcomes participation in efforts to address these issues as part of broader African solutions.
