Immigration: Operation Dudula v Mbeki

OPERATION Dudula has accused former President Thabo Mbeki of weak border controls and a lack of decisive leadership during his tenure, saying this led to a large influx of migrants into South Africa, and has called on him to “fix his mess”.

- SIMON MAJADIBODU

This follows comments by Mbeki, who said it “hurts” him to see Operation Dudula blaming foreign nationals for the country’s problems.

“Operation Dudula has noted with regret the dishonest and hypocritical statement made by former President Thabo Mbeki, referring to Operation Dudula as ‘this thing,” the group said in a statement.

“Dear former President Thabo Mbeki, Operation Dudula is not ‘this thing? We are a political party with foundations in South African communities and among military veterans. You would do well, Mr. former President, to enjoy your pension and your newly found hobby of photography, and allow South Africa’s young people to address the invasion of our country by illegal foreigners,’ it added.

Mbeki made his remarks during a Thanksgiving event in Johannesburg on Saturday marking the 15th anniversary of the Thabo Mbeki Foundation.