by DION HENRICK
CAPE TOWN – PARLIAMENT’S Select Committee on Education, Sciences and the Creative Industries has strongly condemned recent actions and threats by Operation Dudula, warning that such conduct undermines South Africa’s democracy and rule of law.
Committee chairperson Makhi Feni criticised the group’s ongoing disruptions at healthcare centres, where members have reportedly barred foreign nationals from entry, and its announcement of plans to target schools in 2026.
“Operation Dudula’s actions have the potential to misrepresent our country and our democracy,” Feni said. “South Africa is a country of law and order, and these should be strictly adhered to.”
He stressed that many foreign nationals arrive in South Africa seeking refuge from hunger and hardship, not by choice, and warned against “vigilante tactics” in dealing with immigration issues.
Feni highlighted existing government measures to address immigration challenges, including the establishment of the Border Management Agency in 2024, the Labour Migration Policy, and ongoing deportations by the Department of Home Affairs of those found to be in the country illegally.
“We cannot all adopt vigilante tactics when dealing with a challenge everyone accepts as massive and worthy of resolution,” he said, adding that legislative amendments are being considered to improve enforcement.
The chairperson urged Operation Dudula to work with government rather than persecute vulnerable people. “We must enhance the work of government, not seek to punish those in need of help and food,” he concluded.
– CAJ News
