Helen Zille, the Chairperson of the Democratic Alliance (DA), has found herself at the center of a heated debate after a video of her expressing her opposition to the expulsion of Zimbabweans holding Zimbabwe Exemption Permits (ZEP) surfaced on social media.
The video, capturing Zille’s impassioned defence of the regularization of Zimbabwean immigrants in South Africa, has ignited a flurry of diverse reactions across various social media platforms.
In the video, Zille emphasizes the invaluable contributions that Zimbabweans make to South Africa’s economy, citing their significant skills and expertise. She advocates for a more inclusive approach to immigration, asserting that providing illegal immigrants with the opportunity to regularize their status could yield substantial economic benefits. Zille’s stance underscores the potential advantages of attracting skilled foreign workers and entrepreneurs to bolster economic growth.
“Many Zimbabweans in South Africa are highly skilled and contribute immensely to our economy,” Zille stated.
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Furthermore, Zille cautioned against resorting to populist rhetoric in addressing immigration issues, emphasizing the complexity of the matter and the necessity for comprehensive, long-term solutions. She stressed the importance of implementing proper laws and border patrols, while also highlighting the need to build state capacity without corruption.
Unsurprisingly, Zille’s remarks have evoked a spectrum of reactions from both Zimbabweans and South Africans. Zimbabweans have largely welcomed her position, viewing it as a positive step towards stability and recognition of their contributions to South Africa. Conversely, many South Africans have expressed opposition to Zille’s stance, contending that it effectively supports an open border policy, which they vehemently oppose.
This controversy surrounding Zille’s stance on Zimbabwean immigration underscores the contentious nature of immigration policies in South Africa. The polarized reactions highlight the divergence in opinions regarding the appropriate approach to managing immigration and its impact on the country’s socio-economic landscape.
Helen Zille’s remarks have sparked a flurry of diverse reactions on social media. Her approach has been widely welcomed by Zimbabweans, who see it as a positive step towards stability and recognition of their contributions.
However, many South Africans have expressed opposition, arguing that Zille’s stance effectively supports an open border policy.
Here are some of the reactions;
@phunyakamphte;
So Zimbabweans chased out whites in Zimbabwe but side with them in South Africa lol make it make sense Zimbabweans 🥴🥴🥴🥴🥴
@KingJayZim;
I can’t believe this is coming from Ambuya Zille! I’m pleasantly surprised ! Well articulated.
@NyathiLiberty;
Quite appealing, however ANC + DA coalition will not work.
@matome_07;
She has no lived experience of black ppl who are directly impacted by this. Violent crime, spiking on free way etc. she talks from a point of privilege and class basis
@NandisaGschwari;
She can go back to her ancestors land. On behalf of all patriots @helenzille we will no allow slavery. Blks can all do better in their countries if whites stop interference. Helen Zille is busy advocating for her Zimbabwean slaves that get paid R80 per day 🚮🚮🚮🚮
