The content on this page is not written by Polity.org.za, but is supplied by third parties. This content does not constitute news reporting by Polity.org.za.

Following today’s statement by the South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC), ActionSA reaffirms our firm rejection of the continued abuse of South Africa’s public healthcare system by illegal foreign nationals. Through the misapplication of Section 27 of the Constitution, access to healthcare has been inappropriately extended in a manner that places immense pressure on an already overburdened system.

In May, ActionSA submitted a suite of proposed constitutional amendments aimed at overhauling key provisions that have been weaponised to exacerbate South Africa’s illegal immigration crisis. ActionSA’s proposals are rooted in our belief that while the noble intentions of our Constitution must be preserved, its interpretation must not compromise the rights of law-abiding South Africans or facilitate the misuse of state resources.

No South African can enter another country legally without providing proof of medical insurance. This is because responsible governments do not budget to provide public services to foreign nationals without limits. Yet in South Africa, we are expected to carry this burden indefinitely. And while the SAHRC finds time to fight on behalf of illegal foreigners, we are yet to see them join our fight for justice for the Lily Mine families. 

ActionSA remains our firm view that the widespread abuse of Section 27 has undermined the fulfilment of the right to access healthcare for South African citizens. Our constitutional amendments are designed to end this untenable situation, which sees hospitals and clinics overwhelmed and under-resourced.

It is unconscionable that a public clinic in Johannesburg can report that over 70% of its patient records belong to foreign nationals. South Africa’s Constitution must reflect the reality of our limited capacity and place the wellbeing of its citizens at the centre. 

ActionSA believes that constitutional provisions must be rebalanced to put South Africans first, while still honouring basic humanitarian obligations in a sustainable and lawful manner.

Issued by ActionSA Parliamentary Chief Whip Lerato Ngobeni