Gauteng premier Panyaza Lesufi has urged the ANC to take stronger action against illegal immigration, warning that communities are increasingly demanding accountability.
Speaking at the opening of the 16th ANC Greater Johannesburg regional conference on Wednesday, he said the party cannot ignore the public’s frustration.
He argued that the country cannot allow people whose identities and entry routes are unknown to “do as they wish”.
Lesufi said residents are insisting that anyone who entered South Africa unlawfully must leave through the same route.
Communities still back ANC despite immigration debates
Lesufi said some opposition parties tried to use illegal immigration as the centrepiece of their campaigns, but voters still backed the ANC because they believe the governing party can manage the issue.
He criticised political parties that disrupt clinics, schools or major events such as the G20 to protest about immigration.
He noted that undocumented individuals pose a challenge because authorities cannot trace them.
“Two of our policemen were gunned down by people whom we do not know how they entered our country,” he said.
Corruption remains a major public concern stated Lesufi
Lesufi said South Africans are calling on the ANC to confront corruption decisively.
He warned that failing to address corruption could mark “the end of the road” for the party.
He said people recognise institutions such as the Hawks, the NPA, the Public Protector and intelligence structures, but believe these bodies operate inconsistently.
According to him, the perception that investigations depend on “your surname” or political associations is damaging public trust.
Lesufi acknowledged that unemployment, especially among young people, deeply worries South Africans.
He said many citizens feel the ANC lacks the ideas or strategies needed to create decent work.
