Siphelele Nketo
IN the midst of marches against illegal foreign nationals across South Africa, the Greater Kokstad Municipality mayor Lwanda Madikizela has strongly appealed to businesses around the town of Kokstad and all employers to adhere strictly to labour and immigration laws. He further cautioned about consequences that will be faced by businesses and homeowners who allow illegal immigrants into their businesses and accept rentals from illegal immigrants.
Madikizela delivered his speech during the municipal imbizo at the Shayamoya sports field on Tuesday, June 2.
He called for stricter mechanisms to crack down on illegal immigration, saying that the municipal council views undocumented migration as a significant security and economic challenge.
However, he said that the municipality welcomes foreign nationals who follow proper channels to live and work in South Africa.
Several towns and cities across South Africa have conducted marches against illegal foreigners. It was reported that a Kokstad protest which was announced on social media last week did not go ahead. At the time, there was increased police visibility in the town of Kokstad in anticipation of uncertainty.
Madikizela acknowledged frustrations over undocumented migrants but cautioned individuals against taking the law into their own hands.
“We maintain that protest actions against illegal migration are not inherently xenophobic, but we are against intimidation, hate speech and vigilantism,” he stated.
To prepare for the set deadline of June 30 for all illegal foreigners to leave South Africa, police said there will be more deployments to ensure stability, peace and order.
At the same time, police in KZN issued a stern warning to members of the public who are sharing online messages or social media posts that incite violence.
Meanwhile, part of Madikizela’s speech at a fully-packed gathering was to highlight municipal achievements, stating that the municipal council has met the growing needs of Kokstad residents through rendering quality services, promoting economic development and fiscal discipline.
He said the municipality has been number one in KZN with the management of government finances. He gave feedback about the construction of the 300-unit phase saying that the progress is at an advanced stage with the municipality in the process of appointing a Facilities Management Company to handle tenant applications, background checks and unit allocations.
With regards to housing development in the area of Shayamoya, Madikizela said that the municipality together with the Department of Human Settlements is finalising the process to appoint a contractor for 1 003 housing units.
