Government denounces denial of clinic access to foreign nationals
The government has denounced the exclusion of foreign nationals from healthcare services and called on communities to uphold the law.
The South African government has condemned recent incidents where groups blocked foreign nationals from accessing healthcare at public facilities, saying these actions violate constitutional rights.
The government upholds constitutional rights
In a statement issued on Saturday, the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) stressed that everyone within South Africa’s borders has the right to healthcare, regardless of nationality.
GCIS highlighted that Section 27(1) of the 1996 Constitution of the Republic of South Africa clearly states that “everyone has the right to access healthcare services.”
The government also urged communities to remember that South Africa has committed to regional and international agreements that promote universal access to healthcare.
“Denying individuals healthcare based on their origin is a violation of our laws and values as a nation,” it said.
Law enforcement intervenes
To restore order, the South African Police Service (SAPS), together with the Department of Health and Public Order Police, has implemented an operational plan to address protests at affected health facilities.
“Law enforcement agencies are continuing to deal with all individuals in the country illegally, in line with the applicable laws and immigration processes,” the GCIS warned.
The Department of Home Affairs will continue partnering with SAPS to identify and prosecute individuals who break immigration laws. The government reaffirmed its commitment to handling migration issues legally and stated clearly that it does not tolerate illegal immigration.
Call for unity and order
The government acknowledged frustrations with overcrowded clinics and overworked healthcare staff but urged the public to raise concerns through proper legal channels.
It is working to expand public health resources and increase staffing to ease pressure on facilities and ensure all users receive dignified care. The government also called on communities to “uphold the rule of law, respect human dignity, and continue to work together to build a united and inclusive South Africa.”