Story by ZBC staff reporter
THE South African government has distanced itself from the 30 June deadline set by xenophobia-instigating groups for all foreign nationals to leave the country.
Addressing journalists from across Africa via Zoom this Friday, Director at Home Affairs, South Africa, Mr Sihle Mthiyane said the government has not issued such a directive, adding that they are determined to address the migration issue with respect for human rights and international law.
Mthiyane reminded South Africans who are instigating attacks on foreigners that human rights apply to all, including foreign nationals.
Chief Director of the South African Government Communication and Information System, Mr William Baloyi, weighed in, stating that in line with President Cyril Ramaphosa’s State of the Nation Address a few weeks ago, no one except law enforcement agents has the right to question or determine the status of another person’s stay in the country.
He said government’s priority is on strengthening immigration processes in South Africa, which is being done in consultation with other countries.
