EFF leader Julius Malema has reignited debate over immigration in South Africa, accusing the country of applying double standards by focusing on Black African migrants while ignoring white foreigners. Speaking at a recent gathering, Malema argued that white immigrants in Cape Town are often welcomed as “expats” or “investors,” while Black Africans face hostility and deportation.
“Why is it that when a white person comes to Cape Town, they’re called an expat, but when a Black person opens a business in Johannesburg or Durban, they’re called ‘illegal’ and threatened with deportation?” Malema questioned. “There are many white foreigners in this country, yet the immigration debate only targets Zimbabweans, Nigerians, and Malawians.”
His comments align with the EFF’s pan-Africanist stance, which rejects xenophobia while calling for fair and non-racial immigration policies. The remarks have sparked mixed reactions, with some applauding him for exposing perceived racial biases and others accusing him of diverting attention from broader economic challenges.
Cape Town, known for its large expatriate community, hosts thousands of legal immigrants from Europe, North America, and Australia. However, Malema’s intervention comes as South Africa grapples with high unemployment and inequality, fueling tensions over migration and economic opportunity.
While the Department of Home Affairs has not yet formally responded, sources indicate that immigration processes are applied uniformly, regardless of race or nationality. As South Africa navigates coalition politics and local government shifts, Malema’s remarks are likely to fuel further debate on immigration, race, and economic justice.