Church leaders in South Africa (SA) are urging citizens not to take the law into their own hands amid planned action against undocumented migrants later this month.
The All-Africa Bishops Council says concerns over illegal immigration should be addressed through lawful processes and government institutions.
The council has called for calm, noting that President Cyril Ramaphosa has already announced measures aimed at tackling the issue.
Protests linked to undocumented migrants have raised concern across the country, with the All-Africa Bishops Council acknowledging the frustrations of many citizens.
Speaking at a media briefing in Pretoria, Gauteng Province, Council President Archbishop Owen McGregor, said rising unemployment, poverty and deteriorating infrastructure have fuelled public anger.
However, he stressed that law enforcement agencies should deal with immigration-related issues.
While agreeing with Ramaphosa that migrants are not the root cause of the country’s challenges, McGregor said government must urgently strengthen border security and improve service delivery.
–SABC–
