Dudula’s School Threats Slammed by Parliament: “This is Not a Banana Republic”

Loading player...
Parliament has come out swinging against Operation Dudula after the group vowed to block undocumented children, mainly immigrants from attending school in 2026. MPs have warned that such actions would be illegal and a violation of children’s rights. Chairperson of the Select Committee on Education, Makhi Feni, raised a critical point: how will Dudula even distinguish between South African children without documents and foreign nationals? He reminded MPs that an estimated 6 million South Africans about 11% of the population lack proper documentation, often due to disasters like

fires or floods. “Are we going to have sniffer dogs at the gates to decide who belongs?” he asked sarcastically. Feni warned that disrupting schools and intimidating children would not be tolerated. "We are a constitutional democracy not a banana republic,” he said. Phemelo speaks to Makhi Feni and Operation Dudula President Zandile Dabula.
21 Aug 2025 4PM English South Africa Education · Careers

Other recent episodes

International stories making headlines

From developments involving the US and Mexico to tensions in the Middle East and the latest from Russia, Phemelo unpacks the biggest global stories shaping the news agenda with global affairs specialist, Dr Terence McNamee.
2 Jun 4PM 26 min

Tshwane eyes investment boost through human settlements summit

The City of Tshwane hosted a Human Settlements Symposium aimed at attracting investment, accelerating housing development and driving spatial transformation. Phemelo speaks to MMC for Human Settlements Aaron Maluleka about the city’s plans to reshape communities and unlock growth.
2 Jun 4PM 11 min

Ian Cameron: Cape Flats needs policing, not political motorcades

With gang violence continuing to plague the Cape Flats, DA MP Ian Cameron says communities need more detectives, visible policing and crime-fighting resources, not political convoys and symbolic security visits. Phemelo speaks to the Chairperson of Parliament’s Portfolio Committee on Police about tackling crime on the ground.
2 Jun 4PM 11 min

Makashule Gana elected to lead Ramaphosa impeachment inquiry committee

Rise Mzansi Chief Whip Makashule Gana has been elected chairperson of Parliament’s Section 89 Impeachment Committee, which will consider whether there are grounds to recommend President Cyril Ramaphosa’s removal from office. Phemelo speaks to Gana about the negotiations behind his election and the work that lies ahead.
2 Jun 4PM 5 min

Tonjeni retirement may end disciplinary case over Sibanyoni matter

The retirement of former Mpumalanga Chief Magistrate Tuletu Tonjeni could effectively bring an end to disciplinary action linked to her handling of the high-profile Joe “Ferrari” Sibanyoni extortion case. Tonjeni stepped down amid scrutiny over her controversial court decisions, while legal questions remain about accountability after retirement. Phemelo speaks to…
2 Jun 4PM 7 min