ActionSA leader Herman Mashaba has warned anti-immigration movement Operation Dudula that while their frustrations over undocumented migration are “justified,” their methods risk undermining South Africa’s democratic principles.
Mashaba revealed he recently held a “productive” meeting with Operation Dudula’s leadership. He said his party shares concerns about undocumented immigration but insists the issue must be addressed “through legal channels” rather than intimidation or confrontation.
Mashaba cautioned the group against setting a “dangerous precedent,” questioning whether a government led by them would allow citizens to break the law out of dissatisfaction. “What they are fighting for is justified, but ActionSA wants to take the momentum through legal channels. We don’t want to take the law into our own hands,” he said.
Operation Dudula, however, remains defiant. The group has continued efforts to block undocumented migrants from accessing public healthcare, arguing that the sector is overstretched.
Its leader, Zandile Dabula, confirmed plans to expand operations to schools when they reopen in 2026, despite a Johannesburg High Court interdict barring members from harassing or obstructing foreign nationals or interfering with access to services. Dudula intends to appeal the ruling.
Mashaba maintains that ActionSA’s position on immigration including the mass deportation of undocumented foreign nationals aligns with Dudula’s concerns but rejects vigilantism. He urged the movement to direct public anger at the ANC, which he accuses of failing to manage immigration and protect borders.
This is not the first time Mashaba has spoken out. In 2022, he warned citizens against scapegoating foreigners and called for “the rule of law over anarchy.” Meanwhile, the South African Human Rights Commission continues to pursue legal action to halt unlawful denial of medical care to migrants, adding to growing pressure on Operation Dudula’s activities.
Source: MDN NEWS
