DUTYWA, EASTERN CAPE — As a self-imposed June 30 deadline rapidly approaches, an anti-illegal immigration march is taking place in Dutywa, marking the latest expansion of a widespread campaign across the Eastern Cape. Following similar demonstrations in Mthatha, civic groups and community activists are intensifying pressure on the government to enforce stricter immigration laws and prioritize South African citizens for employment and state opportunities.
Expanding Campaign Across the Province
The current wave of anti-illegal immigration marches began approximately two months ago. While protests have occurred in various provinces across South Africa, the Eastern Cape has become a primary focal point. Spokespersons for the civic groups leading the campaign state that their primary objective is to compel the government to deport undocumented foreign nationals back to their countries of origin.
According to activist spokespersons, the goal is to strengthen South Africa’s immigration laws first. Once the legal framework is tightened, foreign nationals would be required to reapply for their status through the proper legal channels. Furthermore, the groups are demanding that the government prioritize South African nationals for employment and access to opportunities within key state departments, including the Department of Labour and Employment, the Department of Home Affairs, and the South African Police Service (SAPS).
Towns on High Alert
In the weeks leading up to the June 30 deadline, civic groups in Mthatha have demonstrated multiple times a day, visiting various government entities to demand answers to their list of grievances. The movement has since spread its reach to several other towns across the province, including Tsolo, Butterworth, Komani, and Jeffreys Bay.
Now, the campaign has reached Dutywa, where activists are marching to ensure their demands are addressed by local and provincial government officials.
Economic Impact and Rising Tensions
The arrival of the march in Dutywa has brought the town to a standstill. Local residents reported that foreign-owned shops in the local townships have closed for the day in anticipation of the protests. The march’s starting point is one of the largest shopping centers in Dutywa, leading to widespread expectations that general economic activity in the town will be severely disrupted.
As the June 30 deadline looms, a palpable sense of anxiety is building. This tension extends beyond the march organizers to local residents and business owners who are not entirely aligned with the protests. Meanwhile, spokespersons representing foreign nationals have expressed growing fear and concern over the rhetoric used by the organizations, leaving many immigrants anxious about their safety and future in the country as the march unfolds.
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