KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli has weighed in on the growing tensions in Durban’s CBD, saying illegal immigrants should leave South Africa, but through lawful processes, not violence.
His remarks follow nearly two weeks of protests and demonstrations that have disrupted trading in the city centre.
Ntuli made it clear that while government supports the removal of undocumented individuals, this must be handled by the Department of Home Affairs and not by civilians taking matters into their own hands.
“There are processes that must be followed. We cannot allow lawlessness,” he said.
The Premier added that foreign nationals operating businesses illegally, including spaza shops and CBD stores, should return to their home countries and open up opportunities for South Africans.
He stressed that migration is governed by laws, noting that many South Africans living abroad do so legally and with proper documentation.
“You cannot enter another country without documents. The same applies here,” Ntuli said.
He reassured residents that government will act against those found to be undocumented, using fake papers or refusing to comply with immigration laws.
“Those who are in the country illegally will be deported,” he said, urging calm as authorities work to restore order.
