SA Human Rights Body Demands Police Action on Healthcare Blockades

JOHANNESBURG — [Date not specified in source]

The South African Human Rights Commission has ordered national police leadership to stop groups denying healthcare access to foreign nationals. Commissioner Tshepo Madlingozi declared such actions illegal during Tuesday’s Johannesburg briefing.

Madlingozi confirmed urgent meetings with Police Commissioner Fannie Masemola and health officials after anti-migrant groups blocked public clinics. “We were very clear that it is unlawful for any citizen or organisation to enforce immigration laws,” he stated. “No one is allowed to play the role that belongs to Home Affairs.” (SAHRC statement)

Operation Dudula launched nationwide clinic blockades in June, claiming undocumented migrants overload health services. The group demands priority for South African patients. (Operation Dudula campaign materials)

Another organisation, the March and March Movement, has conducted similar actions in Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal. The SAHRC deemed both groups’ campaigns unlawful.

Madlingozi specifically defended children’s rights: “International law is very clear that no child should be rendered stateless. The Constitution also guarantees every child, whether documented or undocumented, the right to healthcare and education.” (SAHRC statement)

The commissioner warned the public against blaming foreign nationals for healthcare challenges, urging police to “do their work, which is policing, which is ensuring that everyone is able to access healthcare”. (SAHRC statement)

SAHRC plans imminent enforcement measures against the groups, though details remain undisclosed.

Editor’s note: The precise date of the Johannesburg briefing was unspecified in source materials.