JUST IN: Remarks by South African activist Phakelumthakathi on immigration, employment and the country’s economy have generated widespread reactions online.
JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA — South African activist Phakelumthakathi, who has been associated with anti-immigration campaigns, has attracted attention after making comments about immigration and employment in South Africa. In a video circulating on social media, he argued that South Africa possesses enough wealth to provide significant financial support to its citizens while relying on foreign workers to fill many jobs.
According to the widely shared video, Phakelumthakathi claimed that South Africa could pay every citizen the equivalent of ₦1 million annually without requiring them to work. He also suggested that foreign nationals could perform much of the country’s workforce, drawing a comparison with the United Arab Emirates. These remarks reflect his personal views and have not been supported by official economic data or government policy.
The comments have prompted mixed reactions on social media. Some users expressed support for his views on prioritising employment opportunities for South Africans, while others criticised the remarks, arguing that they could encourage hostility toward migrants and oversimplify complex economic and labour market issues. South African authorities have not issued any statement in response to the video.
Immigration remains a sensitive issue in South Africa, where debates over employment, public services and border control have intensified in recent years. Government officials have repeatedly stated that immigration policy should be implemented within the framework of the law, while rights groups have called for the protection of all individuals from discrimination and violence.
The development means the remarks are likely to fuel ongoing public discussions about immigration, economic policy and labour markets in South Africa. While public figures remain free to express their opinions, claims about national finances and public policy require verification through official data and government sources before they can be treated as factual.
