As South Africa prepared for nationwide demonstrations over irregular migration on 30 June, the country’s Minister of Human Settlements, Thembisile Simelane, appealed for the rule of law to be upheld without losing sight of the dignity of every human person, calling on citizens to embrace the values of Ubuntu and fraternity.

Speaking with the Southern African Catholic Bishops Conference (SACBC) communication office, during the Official Reception for the Solemnity of Saints Peter and Paul at the Apostolic Nunciature in Pretoria on 29 June, Minister Simelane reflected on the responsibility shared by government, civil society and the Church to safeguard both justice and compassion at a time of growing social tension.

“The message we must continue to proclaim is one of humanity, Ubuntu, collaboration and mutual care,” she said. “We can respect the law while preserving the dignity of every person.”

Her remarks came just one day before demonstrations were held across several parts of the country, where groups called on the government to intensify action against undocumented migrants. While organisers pledged peaceful protests, authorities remained on alert amid concerns that tensions could escalate.

For the Minister, however, the current debate requires more than political responses. It calls for a renewed commitment to the values that have shaped South Africa’s democratic journey.

“We are living through a difficult period,” she observed. “Migration brings many challenges, particularly for vulnerable people such as women, children and persons with disabilities. Yet our response must always preserve our common humanity.”

The Church as a partner in promoting human dignity

Minister Simelane described the Catholic Church as an important partner in helping society navigate complex social realities.

She noted that the collaboration between the Government and the Church extends beyond formal engagements, recalling President Cyril Ramaphosa’s recent meeting with Pope Leo XIV and expressing hope that cooperation will continue to deepen.

“The Church constantly reminds us that humanity lies at the heart of who we are,” she said. “Its message continues to inspire our communities to build bridges rather than walls.”

A Catholic herself, the Minister also reflected on the historic witness of Regina Mundi Parish in Soweto, which became a symbol of hope during the struggle against apartheid. She said the Church continues to fulfil its mission by remaining close to the poor, the displaced and those who find themselves on the margins of society.

Remembering Africa’s solidarity

Asked about growing narratives questioning the contribution of other African countries during South Africa’s liberation struggle, Simelane rejected such claims.

“Africa stood with South Africa,” she said. “Our neighbours supported our struggle not because they expected anything in return, but because they recognised our shared humanity and moral responsibility.”

Remembering that solidarity, she added, should encourage South Africans to resist narratives that foster division and hostility.

While acknowledging that every sovereign nation has the responsibility to regulate migration according to its laws, she stressed that this must never result in discrimination or collective blame.

“Crime, human trafficking and violence must be addressed through the proper institutions of justice,” she said. “These challenges cannot be resolved by turning against one another.”

The Minister reminded citizens that only authorised law enforcement officials may request identification documents and warned against individuals taking the law into their own hands.

Ubuntu and the Gospel of fraternity

Throughout the conversation, Minister Simelane repeatedly returned to the African value of Ubuntu—”I am because we are”—describing it as a principle deeply compatible with the Gospel’s call to love one’s neighbour.

Her appeal echoes the consistent teaching of Pope Leo XIV, who has encouraged societies facing migration challenges to uphold both justice and mercy, promoting policies that respect legitimate legal frameworks while never losing sight of the inviolable dignity of every human being.

In a country still healing from the wounds of apartheid, the Minister suggested that preserving social cohesion requires dialogue, mutual respect and a renewed commitment to the common good.

“We can prosper together,” she said. “We can celebrate together, face difficulties together and build our future together.”

An invitation to Pope Leo XIV

As Catholics around the world celebrated the Solemnity of Saints Peter and Paul—traditionally observed as the Pope’s Day—Minister Simelane concluded with a warm invitation to Pope Leo XIV to visit South Africa.

“We look forward to welcoming the Holy Father,” she said. “We would receive him both as a government and as Catholics.”

She expressed hope that a papal visit would strengthen efforts to build a society marked by dialogue, reconciliation and peace.

Reflecting on the feast being celebrated, the Minister concluded with a simple but profound reminder:

“We must never forget that, above all, it is about our shared humanity.”