Anti-migrant group, Operation Dudula has vowed to appeal the recent Johannesburg High Court ruling that ordered the group to stop harassing foreign nationals saying the judgment “sets a dangerous precedent” and undermines South Africa’s ability to enforce immigration laws.Speaking at media briefing on Thursday in Johannesburg, Operation Dudula president Zandile Dabula said while the movement respects the judiciary, it is deeply concerned about the wider impact of the court’s decision on law enforcement and national security.“The judgement encourages anarchy and chaos, putting South Africa’s stability at risk,” she said.The controversial civic group, known for its anti-illegal immigration campaigns, accused the state of failing to enforce the Immigration Act, labour laws, and municipal by-laws against undocumented migrants.Operation Dudula said it had submitted more than 100 memorandums to government departments including Home Affairs, SAPS and the Department of Labour calling for tougher enforcement, but claimed its efforts had been ignored.Dabula said illegal immigration continued to strain public resources and social services meant for poor South Africans, warning that this undermines social cohesion.“Poor enforcement of immigration laws is tantamount to sacrificing the majority of voiceless South Africans who are forced to share limited services with illegal migrants,” the statement read.In a bold move, the movement is now calling for a national referendum to allow South Africans to decide how immigration laws should be applied and enforced.“South Africa belongs to all who live in it but this phrase must not be abused to justify illegality,” Dabula added.Operation Dudula has instructed its legal team to appeal the High Court’s judgment, saying it will continue to hold the state accountable while urging members to remain calm and respect the law pending the appeal.
Operation Dudula defies court ruling, calls for national referendum on immigration
