THE LOWLY NEWSPAPERMAN: Anti-immigrant mob is fuelling a dangerous anti-constitutionalist fire

A dangerous element is emerging within South Africa's population—one that dismisses the Constitution and the judiciary as an unnecessary luxury. The anti-immigration lobby is fueling this sentiment, driving hostility towards those who uphold the rule of law. Armed mobs have been seen forcefully enforcing immigration policies, targeting anyone deemed unworthy of being in the country, regardless of their intentions.

This campaign, which began on June 30th with a deadline for undocumented migrants to leave the country, has never truly ended.

The leader of this movement, Jacinta Ngobese-Zuma, has accused the Constitutional Court and the judiciary of undermining South Africa's democracy. She questions the point of living in a democratic society when the courts dictate the law and individuals must accept it. Ignoring the fact that she herself lives in a constitutional democracy, Ngobese-Zuma and her followers claim that the Constitution is a burden, responsible for the nation's problems such as job losses, overpopulation, and security threats.

This hostility extends beyond immigration concerns and has spread to a rejection of constitutional provisions as a whole. Disrespect for the judiciary has even seeped into the public service, with officials ignoring court rulings. Despite these setbacks, judges have consistently stood their ground and ensured the enforcement of the law. The rise of populist leaders and political rhetoric has further eroded trust in the judiciary, leading to a dangerous climate in which constitutional protections are viewed as obsolete.