In a decisive move aimed at restoring local control over the grassroots economy, ActionSA Ekurhuleni Mayoral Candidate, Cllr Xolani Khumalo, has issued a stern challenge to the South African Police Service regarding the legitimacy granted to illegal foreign business operators.
This stance follows a recent visit to Mazwi Kubheka, a local entrepreneur who was recently discharged from the hospital following a harrowing month-long disappearance. The Kubheka case has become a flashpoint for tensions regarding the Spaza shop sector, particularly after it was revealed that two suspects linked to the investigation are of Ethiopian origin.
Concerns over law enforcement priorities
Khumalo expressed significant concern after a recent visit to the Vosloorus Police Station, where he encountered various foreign nationals being engaged by police as purported stakeholders. He argues that this level of access reflects a dangerous trend where foreign interests are gaining undue influence within South African law enforcement processes.
According to Khumalo, these groups remained silent throughout the investigation into Kubheka's disappearance, raising serious questions about their actual role and the basis on which they are granted an audience by the SAPS.
The impact on the local economy
The community of Ekurhuleni is reportedly outraged by the continued recognition of forums representing illegal foreign Spaza shop operators. Khumalo maintains that law enforcement resources are being wasted on entertaining these groups when the priority should instead be on the arrest, investigation, and deportation of those operating outside the legal framework.
He characterises the current situation as a grave policy failure that has allowed a vital economic engine to slip into foreign hands while South African youth face intolerable levels of unemployment.
A campaign for South African ownership
The political party has signaled that this is only the beginning of a broader movement to reshape the local economy. In the coming weeks, ActionSA intends to escalate a campaign focused on a clear, actionable plan to ensure every Spaza shop in the region returns to South African ownership.
Khumalo believes that the Spaza shop sector should serve as a primary tool for building self-reliance and absorbing young South Africans into the economy, rather than being dominated by foreign agents who sideline the rights of local business owners.
Direct support for grassroots pioneers
As a gesture of direct support, Cllr Khumalo has pledged a substantial personal donation to Mazwi Kubheka's business. This contribution is intended to fully restock the shop once Kubheka is ready to resume operations, ensuring that his enterprise remains a symbol of South African resilience.
The overarching goal of the campaign remains unambiguous: to shield local entrepreneurs from foreign competition and ensure that the community is served by businesses owned and operated by its own citizens.