Humanity Knows No Borders
South Africa is witnessing a developing humanitarian crisis as thousands of foreign nationals—both documented and undocumented—seek to leave the country voluntarily amid reports of intimidation, threats, assaults and fear within their communities.
Al Jama-ah reaffirms its unwavering commitment to both the rule of law and the protection of human dignity.
We believe that immigration laws must be administered by the relevant state authorities through lawful and constitutional processes. No individual should be subjected to violence, intimidation or vigilantism because of their nationality or immigration status.
At the same time, we cannot ignore the humanitarian needs of those who have been displaced, traumatised or left vulnerable. Every person is entitled to be treated with dignity and compassion.
We commend the remarkable response from humanitarian organisations, faith-based institutions, diplomatic missions, private stakeholders, community organisations and countless volunteers who have come together to provide food, temporary shelter, transport, medical assistance and support for those choosing voluntary repatriation.
Perhaps the greatest lesson to emerge from this difficult period is that humanity transcends race, religion, nationality, culture and political affiliation. South Africans from diverse communities, together with people of different faiths and backgrounds, have stood side by side to assist those in need. Muslims, Christians, Jews, Hindus, people of African traditional beliefs, and many others have demonstrated that compassion is a universal value. Their collective efforts remind us that our common humanity is far stronger than the divisions that seek to separate us.
Al Jama-ah remains actively engaged and available to assist humanitarian efforts wherever possible. We stand ready to work alongside government, civil society, humanitarian organisations, faith communities and diplomatic missions to ensure that those requiring assistance receive it with dignity and respect.
This moment calls not only for effective governance, but for moral leadership. The true measure of a society is not how it treats the powerful, but how it responds to the vulnerable.
As South Africans, we must reject violence, reject hatred and reject collective blame. We can uphold the law while preserving the constitutional values of human dignity, equality and freedom.
Our message is simple: We respect the law. We defend human dignity. We stand with humanity.
