Labour Department Faces Backlash Over Chief Inspector’s Comments on Undocumented Workers

The Department of Employment and Labour has found itself at the center of a growing controversy following remarks made by its chief inspector, Siphokazi Macozoma, which have sparked widespread public outrage. Macozoma, during a television interview, revealed that she had reached out to colleagues in Home Affairs to explore the possibility of legalizing the stay of some undocumented foreign workers arrested in a recent raid at a restaurant in Menlyn, Pretoria.

Her comments have since ignited a firestorm on social media, with many South Africans expressing anger and frustration, questioning her commitment to enforcing South Africa’s labour laws, particularly at a time when millions of citizens are struggling to find work.

Calls for Macozoma’s dismissal have grown louder, with critics accusing her of undermining the country’s laws and failing to prioritize the needs of unemployed South Africans. The Department of Employment and Labour has responded by stating that the matter is being handled internally. Teboho Thejane, a department spokesperson, said: “We have noted those [concerns], and we are handling the matter internally. As the Department, we enforce the legislative framework within our jurisdiction to the letter.”

Gayton McKenzie on X: “This is why we are sitting with this problem because we have this type of Inspectors. I will take this up with the Minister responsible urgently.” / X

The department’s response has done little to quell the anger, with social rights activist and politician Anele Mda joining the public outcry. Mda accused Macozoma of trivializing legitimate concerns about the employment of undocumented foreign workers in industries such as hospitality, where the problem is said to be particularly prevalent.

“They are people who are not deserving to have benefits according to the laws of South Africa,” Mda said in an interview. “So, it’s very concerning having such a senior person in government who doesn’t know the laws of the country. Why should we have government officials who believe that we owe undocumented people any benefits?”

Mda emphasized that the fight against undocumented workers being prioritized over South Africans would continue, especially as the country grapples with high unemployment rates. “We need to clamp down on government officials who are hiding behind our government departments and are serving foreigners more than they are serving South Africans,” Mda added, calling on Labour and Employment Minister Nomakhosazana Meth to take decisive action against Macozoma.

The issue of undocumented foreign workers has long been a contentious one in South Africa, with many citizens feeling that the influx of migrants is contributing to the country’s high unemployment rate. The hospitality industry, in particular, has faced accusations of favoring undocumented workers, often at the expense of local jobseekers. Macozoma’s comments have only intensified these frustrations, raising broader questions about the government’s stance on immigration and employment policies.

As the public awaits further action from the Department of Employment and Labour, it remains to be seen how the controversy will unfold and whether any meaningful reforms will be introduced to address the employment of undocumented workers in the country. For now, Macozoma’s remarks have highlighted a simmering debate over labour rights, immigration, and the delicate balance between enforcing laws and protecting the vulnerable.