by AKANI CHAUKE
JOHANNESBURG, (CAJ News) – THE South African Communist Party (SACP) has condemned in strongest terms growing xenophobic vigilantism in public hospitals and clinics, warning that the wave of anti-immigrant harassment threatens not only constitutional rights but also the very fabric of working-class unity across Africa.
Groups such as Operation Dudula have in recent weeks stepped up campaigns in Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal, forcibly denying migrants and even some South Africans access to healthcare facilities.
Patients have reportedly been turned away with threats and insults, while healthcare workers are pressured to follow unlawful instructions.
“These actions are not only inhumane, but blatantly unlawful,” the SACP said.
“Section 27 of the Constitution guarantees everyone the right to access healthcare services. No vigilante has the authority to decide who lives and who dies.”
The National Health Act of 2003 explicitly prohibits the denial of emergency medical treatment.
Yet, campaigners pretending to “protect” public services have expanded their intimidation beyond clinics, disrupting public schools and even workplaces where foreign nationals earn a livelihood.
Health experts warn that blocking access to hospitals fuels a dangerous public health crisis.
“If migrants fear being attacked at clinics, communicable diseases will go untreated. This does not only endanger immigrants, but all South Africans living in working-class communities,” a Johannesburg-based health activist told CAJ News Africa.
The SACP acknowledged frustrations over crumbling services and unemployment but placed blame squarely on government failures—especially at the Department of Home Affairs, whose chronic delays in processing documentation have left thousands undocumented.
“Populist vigilantism, reminiscent of apartheid-era pass law harassment, is no solution. It deepens division and distracts from the real issues of inequality and poor governance,” the party declared.
The condemnation comes as regional voices echo concern.
Pan-Africanists warn that xenophobic violence undermines Africa’s vision of unity.
“How can South Africa claim leadership on the continent when clinics are turned into sites of exclusion?” asked a West African diplomat.
The SACP pledged to mobilise mass action with allies, including trade unions and student movements, to confront both xenophobia and state inaction.
“The frustrations of the working class must be directed at policymakers who serve capitalist interests, not vulnerable migrants seeking healthcare,” the statement read.
The party reaffirmed solidarity with the Minister of Health, who has publicly condemned the practice, and with organisations such as Congress of South African Students (COSAS), which oppose disruptions in schools.
“The choice before us is clear,” the SACP concluded. “Either we allow fear and division to tear Africa apart, or we unite against vigilantism and xenophobia to build a society rooted in justice, equality, and solidarity.”
– CAJ News