During his Africa Day address, Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture Gayton McKenzie has defended South Africans against the xenophobia label, saying South Africans have a right to protest against illegal immigration.
Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, has defended South Africa against accusations of xenophobia, stating categorically that South Africans are not inherently hostile to foreigners.
McKenzie's address comes as the country observed Africa Day celebrations on Monday, May 25, with the Justice, Crime Prevention and Security (JCPS) ministers convening an urgent meeting to deal with rising protests on illegal immigration.
The ministers met at the Union Buildings in Tshwane, where they were expected to discuss the broader challenge of illegal immigration and general social cohesion issues. They are set to finalise a framework on the national action plan to combat racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia, and related intolerance.
Speaking during the official Africa Day celebrations at the Moruleng Stadium in the North West, on Monday, McKenzie said there can be no African unity if countries do not take responsibility for their own citizens. He further urged those without proper documentation to leave the country.
