IFP Leader Criticises Asylum Seeker Process
Velenkosini Hlabisa claims foreign nationals are using the asylum system to secure employment in South Africa.
Updated on Oct. 20, 2026 in Immigration
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Should asylum seekers be required to seek relief only in the first country they reach?
Inkatha Freedom Party leader Velenkosini Hlabisa has criticised the use of the asylum seeker application process by foreign nationals to enter the country for employment. His comments follow the Department of Home Affairs withdrawing procedural instructions after violent protests erupted in Durban and Johannesburg.
Why it matters
Hlabisa argues that individuals transiting through multiple countries before reaching South Africa are economic migrants, not asylum seekers. He has called for the deportation of undocumented foreign nationals while campaigning for the upcoming local government elections.
The Department of Home Affairs previously opened an application window following a Constitutional Court judgment, but instructions were withdrawn after public protests. Hlabisa claims some applicants have passed through 10 countries before reaching South Africa.
The players
Velenkosini Hlabisa
He is the leader of the Inkatha Freedom Party and a prominent political figure in South Africa.
Department of Home Affairs
This is the national government body responsible for maintaining citizenship, immigration, and asylum records in South Africa.
The details
Foreign nationals from countries including Pakistan and Indonesia have attempted to apply for asylum in South Africa. The Inkatha Freedom Party is currently targeting Ward 45 as part of its campaign efforts ahead of the November polls.
Timeline
1955: The Freedom Charter was adopted in Kliptown.
Tuesday, 20 October 2026: Velenkosini Hlabisa campaigned in Soweto.
4 November 2026: Local government elections are scheduled to occur.
Political Context
Opposition parties frequently criticise the government's handling of immigration, arguing that current asylum procedures are exploited for economic gain. Supporters of liberal migration policies contend that such rhetoric ignores the humanitarian obligations established following the 1955 adoption of the Freedom Charter.
Residents may see increased political activity and rhetoric regarding border control and asylum policies leading up to the 4 November elections. The withdrawal of asylum application instructions could lead to temporary service disruptions at local Home Affairs offices.
The takeaway
The intersection of economic migration concerns and electoral campaigning suggests immigration will remain a key focus for voters. Residents are encouraged to monitor official announcements from the Department of Home Affairs for updates on the status of asylum processing.
What happens next
Local government elections are scheduled to take place on 4 November 2026.
Further reading
For more on the national debate, read the latest coverage on Immigration.
Live Poll
Should asylum seekers be required to seek relief only in the first country they reach?
