A petition to stop the Helen Suzman Foundation (HSF) from operating in South Africa has been launched.
The petition follows a campaign by March and March, which wrote a letter to HSF demanding answers. In the letter, the March and March campaign alleged that HSF consistently protects undocumented immigrants and is never seen supporting South Africans.
However, HSF told Sunday World that they will not be responding to the letter.
Following this, a petition to stop HSF has been launched, and more than 600 people have already signed it.
Turns blind eye on immigrant crimes
It reads as follows:
“In a tragic incident in Pretoria’s Mary Me informal settlement, patrollers lost their lives due to actions by undocumented immigrants from Zimbabwe. This heartbreaking event sheds light on a growing issue in South Africa. The prioritisation of foreigners over its own citizens by certain organisations.
“The Helen Suzman Foundation stands accused of safeguarding undocumented immigrants and overlooking the plight of South African citizens. This claim is not without basis. Citizens lament the Foundation’s tendency to remain silent during incidents where locals fall victim to crimes perpetrated by undocumented immigrants. However, swift accusations of xenophobia arise when South Africans speak out against illegal activities by immigrants. It seems there’s a disparity in addressing the challenges South Africans face.
“South Africa struggles under the weight of an overburdened healthcare system, strained government resources, and overworked staffing. Undocumented immigration exacerbates these problems. This… is demanding the need for organisations that sincerely uphold the rights and well-being of the country’s citizens.
HSF doesn’t put SA citizens first
“This call to action seeks to stop the Helen Suzman Foundation from operating in South Africa until it aligns its operations with the best interests of the citizens. By doing so, we aim for a nation where the rights of South Africans are paramount. And its resources are directed towards resolving pressing national issues.
“It’s time for transparency and accountability. It’s time for our voices to be heard. Urge the government to review the operations of organisations that may not have the nation’s best interests at heart. Support our cause by signing this petition, demanding immediate action and reform. Together, we can ensure safety, well-being, and justice for every South African. Sign today to be part of the change.”
Radio host Jacinta Ngobese-Zuma, who is behind the March and March campaign, said that the fight is far from over.
“It is now clear that the HSF is against South Africans. They would rather protect undocumented immigrants than protect South Africans. We are therefore wondering why they still exist. Why are they still operating within our borders? We are sending a strong message to the HSF: they must pack up and leave,” said Ngobese-Zuma.