The South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) has called on National Police Commissioner General Fannie Masemola to act against Operation Dudula and other anti-migrant groups preventing foreign nationals from accessing healthcare services.
Speaking at a media briefing in Johannesburg on Tuesday, SAHRC commissioner Professor Tshepo Madlingozi said it is unlawful for anyone to block undocumented foreign nationals from receiving treatment at public health facilities.
The Commission released several reports on the state of human rights in South Africa.
Madlingozi warned people not to blame foreign nationals for problems in the healthcare system.
“We were very clear that it is unlawful for any citizen or organisation to enforce immigration laws,” he said. “No one is allowed to play the role that belongs to Home Affairs.”
Operation Dudula Campaign
Operation Dudula started a national campaign in June to block undocumented migrants from using public healthcare.
The group says migrants put pressure on the system and wants healthcare to put South African citizens first.
Its activities, particularly in Gauteng, have drawn criticism from government and human rights bodies, though some community members have voiced support.
Another movement, the March and March Movement, has also targeted migrants in parts of Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal.
The SAHRC labelled these campaigns illegal. Madlingozi confirmed the Commission has met with General Masemola and the National Health Department to demand stronger enforcement of the law.
“They must do their work, which is policing, which is ensuring that everyone is able to access healthcare,” he said.
Children’s Healthcare Rights Highlighted
Madlingozi emphasised that children must never be denied healthcare.
“International law is very clear that no child should be rendered stateless,” he said.
“The Constitution also guarantees every child, whether documented or undocumented, the right to healthcare and education.”
He added that the Commission will soon announce further measures to stop groups from blocking migrants.
Should General Masemola act against groups blocking migrants from healthcare?
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