Addressing the Root Causes of Irregular Immigration and Upholding Accountability

The African Solidarity Civic Organization (ASCO) wishes to contribute constructively to the ongoing national dialogue regarding irregular immigration, border security, corruption, and the safety of all people living in South Africa.

The recent developments surrounding Prophet Shepherd Bushiri's alleged unlawful departure from South Africa, and the allegations relating to fraudulent immigration documentation, raise important questions about the integrity of our immigration system. If individuals can obtain documents unlawfully, who facilitated the process? How do people cross borders without official assistance? What accountability mechanisms exist for officials who solicit or accept bribery?

ASCO believes that public attention should not focus solely on illegal foreign nationals while overlooking corruption within state institutions. Illegal immigration is often enabled by failures in governance, border management, and corruption. These underlying issues deserve equal attention.

ASCO does not support illegal immigration. We support the lawful enforcement of South African immigration laws while firmly and strongly rejecting xenophobia, vigilantism, and attacks against illegal foreign nationals. Lasting solutions require accountability for corrupt officials, strengthened border controls, institutional reform, and equal application of the law.

South Africans should continue to hold the government accountable through lawful and democratic means. Addressing the root causes of corruption and governance failures will better protect the country's interests than targeting vulnerable communities.

Issued By

African Solidarity Civic Organization (ASCO)

Media Enquiries

Mr Bhekisisa Shandu — Executive Director and Founder
Tel: +27 78 287 2814
Email: info@africansolidaritycivic.org