Lephalale Councillor Issues 21-Day Ultimatum for Undocumented Migrants

LEPHALALE, South Africa – African Transformation Movement (ATM) Councillor Sello Moselane, overseeing home affairs in Lephalale Municipality, announced a 21-day deadline on Friday for undocumented foreign nationals to vacate Ga-Seleka, threatening legal action against residents who harbour migrants without permits.

Moselane stated in a social media post that South Africans housing undocumented migrants risk fines up to R5,000 or five-year prison terms under “harbouring” laws, while overstaying foreigners face exit penalties of R2,500 to R3,000.

The ultimatum sets September 17, 2025, as the expulsion deadline for Ga-Seleka, with plans to expand enforcement across Lephalale pending consultations with traditional councils in Shogoane, Mokuruanyane, Marapong, and other villages.

“Mahlakung’s 80% foreign occupancy must end – informal structures should be sold to locals,” said Moselane, urging immediate voluntary departures to avoid blame for “not warning people.”

The move intensifies South African migration policy debates as municipalities increasingly bypass national authorities on enforcement.