Floyd Shivambu has stepped into South Africa’s heated immigration debate, defending controversial figures Jacinta Ngobese-Zuma and Ngizwe Mchunu by saying their frustrations over undocumented immigration are “legitimate” and should not simply be dismissed or mocked.
Speaking on the growing national tensions surrounding immigration, Shivambu said the Africa Mayibuye Movement would not join efforts to insult or discredit people raising concerns about undocumented migrants and pressure on public resources.
“All the concerns raised by Jacinta Ngobese and Ngizwe Mchunu are legitimate,” Shivambu said, arguing that ignoring citizens’ frustrations could deepen anger and mistrust toward political institutions.
His remarks come as immigration continues dominating political and social conversations across South Africa, with increasing public concern over unemployment, healthcare strain, housing shortages and pressure on government services.
Ngobese-Zuma and Mchunu have both become outspoken voices calling for stronger action against undocumented migration, arguing that uncontrolled immigration is placing growing pressure on struggling communities.
Shivambu, however, insisted the issue should be approached through engagement and policy discussions rather than hostility or public shaming.
“We will not join those who insult or undermine them,” he said.
According to Shivambu, undocumented migration also creates major planning challenges for government departments responsible for budgeting and service delivery. He argued that without accurate population data, authorities struggle to properly allocate resources for schools, hospitals, infrastructure and housing projects.
His comments are already fueling strong reactions online, where South Africans remain deeply divided over immigration policy. Some praised Shivambu for acknowledging frustrations many citizens feel are ignored by politicians, while others warned that such rhetoric could increase social tensions and unfairly stigmatise foreign nationals.
Political analysts say the remarks position the Africa Mayibuye Movement firmly within the growing national debate around migration, governance and economic pressure, especially as immigration becomes one of the country’s most emotionally charged political topics.
As tensions continue rising, the debate now appears far from over, with growing pressure on government to balance border control, public concerns and human rights without pushing communities further apart.
Do you think leaders are finally listening to ordinary South Africans about immigration concerns, or are these debates becoming too divisive for the country’s stability?