Forum calls for investigation into death at refugee reception centre

THE African Diaspora Forum (ADF) has called on the government to conduct a comprehensive investigation into the death of a foreign national at the Desmond Tutu Refugee Reception Centre yesterday.

The forum’s spokesperson, Bongani Mkhwanazi, said it was concerning that it had taken the death of a refugee for authorities to want to address refugees’ problems.

The ADF’s comments come after a refugee died at the centre in Hammanskraal.

“This heartbreaking event underscores the dire conditions faced by asylum seekers in South Africa, who endure inhumane circumstances while seeking essential documentation.

“The ADF calls on the authorities to conduct an immediate and comprehensive investigation into this incident, addressing not only the causes of the stampede, but also the broader systemic issues plaguing refugee reception centres.

“These centres, intended to provide refuge, have instead become sites of desperation due to overcrowding, long queues, and inadequate facilities,” Mkhwanazi said.

He added that to prevent such incidents, the government needed to lodge a full inquiry into the death, focusing on systemic issues. The AFD wants the government to implement, among others, the following:

■ Reform: improve conditions and operations at centres nationwide.

■ Corruption: investigate and eliminate corruption in centres.

■ Human rights protection: ensure Home Affairs officials uphold the highest human rights standards.

■ Stakeholder engagement: collaborate with civil society and migrant communities to address asylum process challenges.

Mkhwanazi continued to say that yesterday’s unfortunate incident should serve as a catalyst for meaningful change in the asylum system.

“The ADF stands in solidarity with the affected families and remains committed to advocating for the rights and well-being of all migrants and asylum seekers in South Africa. Now is the time for action and reform.”

Department of Home Affairs spokesperson Siya Qoza failed to respond to the publication’s questions by the time of publication.