For many South Africans, illegal immigration is not just a statistic—it’s a direct threat to their livelihoods and security. In a country where unemployment rates are perpetually high and local wages remain stagnant, the influx of undocumented individuals exacerbates an already dire situation. Public infrastructure is stretched to its limits, often sidelining citizens who desperately need access to these services. Moreover, many communities are expressing serious concerns about escalating crime rates, as well as the monopolization of informal businesses by those who may not even hold legal status in our country. Corruption within the national immigration system only compounds these issues, eroding trust and hampering effective governance.

Given these pressing national concerns, this petition calls for the immediate postponement of the 2026 Local Government Elections until certain conditions are satisfactorily met. We urge the Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC), the Minister of Home Affairs, the Minister of Small Business Development, Minister of Cooperative Governance, and the Parliament of South Africa to prioritize national security, comprehensive immigration reforms, document audits, and local spaza shop restitutions.

The national security of South Africa should be a paramount concern, with immigration reforms at the forefront. Comprehensive and transparent reforms are needed to address the illegal immigration issue, ensuring that only those who add value to our nation are welcomed. Clamping down on corruption within the immigration system is equally critical, as it breeds distrust and inefficiency.

In addition to these, conducting thorough document audits is essential. Audits will help verify the legality of immigrants and ensure the integrity of our national database. This can be achieved by enhancing transparency and accountability in immigration procedures.

Furthermore, prioritizing local spaza shop restitutions will help mitigate the economic monopoly that informal business sectors face due to the presence of undocumented individuals. This is vital to rejuvenate our local economy and provide equality of opportunity amongst legitimate business operators.

Join our call for a just and secure future for South Africans. Delaying the elections until these conditions are met gives us the opportunity to rebuild a nation that prioritizes its citizens, upholds laws, and fosters a secure environment for everyone. Sign this petition to make your voice heard and demand essential reforms.