Minister of International Relations and Cooperation Ronald Lamola has distanced the Government of National Unity (GNU) from claims suggesting that Pakistani nationals are being encouraged to relocate to South Africa and allegations that 15,000 trained Jewish individuals from Israel are currently in the country.
Lamola’s response followed a parliamentary question from Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) Member of Parliament Thandiswa Marawu, who sought clarity on whether government aligned itself with remarks allegedly made by an individual encouraging Pakistani nationals to move to South Africa while also claiming that thousands of trained Jewish people from Israel were already residing in the country.
In his written reply, Lamola made it clear that the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) does not support or endorse the statements.
“The Department of International Relations and Cooperation unequivocally does not align itself with or endorse the comments attributed to the individual mentioned in the parliamentary question,” Lamola said.
He further stated that the comments do not reflect the official position of either the South African government or the Government of National Unity.
According to Lamola, South Africa’s immigration policies are governed by the Constitution, the Immigration Act of 2002, and other relevant legislation administered through established legal processes by the Department of Home Affairs.
He emphasised that government does not support irregular migration and that all foreign nationals entering or residing in South Africa are required to comply with applicable immigration laws and procedures.
Addressing the claim that 15,000 trained Jewish individuals from Israel are in South Africa, Lamola said there is no verified information supporting such allegations.
“There is no credible or verified information” to support the claim, he said, adding that such statements are regarded as unsubstantiated and do not form part of any official government assessments or positions.
The minister encouraged anyone with evidence relating to such allegations to report the matter to law enforcement agencies.
Lamola also urged public representatives and citizens to avoid engaging in rhetoric or activities that may promote discrimination against individuals or groups. He referenced South Africa’s constitutional principles and the Prevention and Combating of Hate Crimes and Hate Speech Act as important safeguards against prejudice and intolerance.
He said government remains committed to promoting responsible public discourse, factual accuracy and constructive international relations based on mutual respect and adherence to international law.
The minister concluded by reiterating that the Government of National Unity does not endorse the claims referenced in the parliamentary question and remains committed to lawful and transparent immigration processes.
