JACINTA NGOBESE-ZUMA SAYS SHE STANDS WITH ZIMBABWEANS IN THEIR FIGHT FOR FREEDOM AND DEVELOPMENT EVEN AFTER SOME PEOPLE ACCUSED HER OF BEING XENOPHOBIC
March and March senior leader Jacinta Ngobese-Zuma has expressed support for the people of Zimbabwe, saying South Africans are standing with Zimbabwean citizens in their struggle for freedom, democracy and development.
Her remarks come despite criticism from some who have previously accused her and others of promoting xenophobic views. Ngobese-Zuma argued that supporting stronger immigration policies and supporting the people of Zimbabwe are not mutually exclusive.
She questioned where those who describe themselves as Pan-Africanists are during Zimbabweans’ calls for greater political and economic change, suggesting that solidarity with ordinary Zimbabwean citizens should extend beyond words.
The comments have sparked debate on social media, with some praising her message as a sign that South Africans can support Zimbabwean citizens while still advocating for secure borders and lawful immigration. Others argue that the issue is more complex and requires cooperation between African governments to address the root causes of migration.
The discussion comes as many Zimbabweans continue to call for improved economic opportunities, better governance and greater political freedoms in their country.
Do you believe South Africans can support Zimbabwean citizens while also calling for stronger immigration controls, or do you think the two positions are incompatible?