Operation Dudula Leader Fires Back at Zimbabwe’s Ruling Party

JOHANNESBURG — 27 May 2024

Operation Dudula leader Zandile Dabula has rebuffed Zimbabwe’s ruling Zanu-PF party after it criticised the movement’s stance on undocumented migrants receiving healthcare in South Africa.

In an interview with IOL News, Dabula dismissed accusations that her movement promotes colonial-era divisions. She stated Operation Dudula acts within South Africa’s Constitution and immigration laws.

Her response targeted Zanu-PF information director Farai Marapira, who had accused Operation Dudula of betraying the African principle of Ubuntu and reviving colonial strategies.

Dabula countered: “They should focus on fixing their own country,” adding “Zimbabweans are fleeing because Zanu-PF has failed them. They are taking up space in South Africa and elsewhere in the world.”

She claimed Zimbabweans in South Africa exceeded official numbers, straining jobs, education and public services (Dabula).

Regarding healthcare, Dabula clarified Operation Dudula seeks payment from foreign nationals using public healthcare, not denial of service. She said: “We are not saying they should not get treatment. We are saying they must pay, just like South Africans do.”

Marapira earlier maintained healthcare is a universal human right without qualifications.

Dabula warned ANC alliances with Zanu-PF could lead South Africa down similar crisis paths. She urged Zimbabweans to establish their own Operation Dudula branch to confront Zanu-PF directly, pledging: “We will help them.”