Sports, Arts and Culture Minister Gayton McKenzie has softened his stance on illegal immigration, urging South Africans not to take the law into their own hands when dealing with undocumented foreign nationals.
Speaking at a Youth Day event at Nasrec in Johannesburg on Tuesday, McKenzie said only law enforcement authorities have the legal mandate to arrest and deport illegal immigrants.
The minister, who previously gained attention for his hardline position on illegal immigration and his involvement in efforts to prevent undocumented migrants from crossing the Beitbridge border before his party joined the Government of National Unity (GNU), said his understanding of government processes has evolved.
McKenzie specifically warned young people against participating in planned anti-illegal immigration demonstrations scheduled for June 30.
His remarks come as civic organisation March and March prepares for a nationwide shutdown and protest march demanding that undocumented immigrants leave South Africa.
Reflecting on his past activism, McKenzie said he was responsible for popularising the phrase “Abahambe” during campaigns aimed at illegal immigrants.
“I coined the term ‘Abahambe’ and made it popular when I was campaigning against illegal immigration,” he said.
However, McKenzie stressed that the responsibility for enforcing immigration laws rests solely with the state.
“I did not fully understand how government works at the time. Now I know that it is the police and other law enforcement agencies — not civic groups — that have the authority to arrest and deport illegal immigrants,” he said.
The minister cautioned members of the public against becoming involved in operations targeting undocumented migrants.
“ You cannot use violence to remove illegal immigrants. Do not participate in those things. You will be arrested and they won’t bail you out,” he warned.
McKenzie also praised President Cyril Ramaphosa for his efforts to address illegal immigration, describing the issue as one of the country’s most pressing challenges.
He dismissed criticism from those who claim his views have changed because he is now part of government and is enjoying blue lights.
“Some people say McKenzie is singing for his supper. What supper? I don’t receive supper , I give supper,” he said.
His comments mark a notable shift from his earlier rhetoric and are likely to earn him criticism from those who will accuse him of flip flopping for political expedience.
