According to Ngobese Zuma, Motsoaledi had developed a comprehensive strategy to tackle undocumented migration before leaving the department. She argued that his plans were better suited to addressing what she described as South Africa’s growing immigration challenges.
She also accused President Ramaphosa of failing to adequately respond to the concerns of ordinary South Africans, particularly those who have repeatedly raised issues relating to illegal immigration, border security and the enforcement of immigration laws.
Her remarks quickly sparked widespread debate on social media, with South Africans expressing sharply divided opinions over who is better placed to lead the Department of Home Affairs.
Supporters of Motsoaledi argued that he introduced key immigration reforms and laid the foundation for measures currently being implemented. They maintained that his experience and policy direction made him the right person to tackle undocumented migration and improve the country’s immigration system.
However, critics rejected the proposal, pointing out that Motsoaledi previously served as Home Affairs Minister for several years while illegal immigration remained a major national concern. Some argued that changing leadership would not automatically resolve long-standing challenges related to border control and immigration enforcement.
Others defended the current minister, Leon Schreiber, praising him for reforms aimed at modernising Home Affairs services, improving document processing and strengthening immigration administration. They argued that he should be given more time to implement his agenda.
The discussion has once again highlighted the deep divisions surrounding immigration policy in South Africa. Issues such as undocumented migration, border security, citizenship documentation, deportations and the regulation of foreign-owned businesses continue to dominate public discourse.
During his tenure as Home Affairs Minister, Motsoaledi also advocated for audits of spaza shops, arguing that undocumented foreign nationals operating businesses illegally should face deportation, while legally documented traders should comply with business registration requirements.
Ngobese Zuma’s latest appeal has reignited calls for a review of the government’s immigration strategy and raised fresh questions about whether changes in Cabinet leadership could influence the country’s approach to managing migration.
While President Ramaphosa has not responded publicly to the proposal, the debate is expected to keep immigration policy at the forefront of South Africa’s political and public discussions in the coming months.