The Issue I am a proud South African, deeply concerned about the current challenges our beloved country faces regarding illegal immigration. The prospect of hosting the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2027 adds fuel to an already burning issue. During the 2010 World Cup, nearly a million people entered South Africa, and numerous reports suggest that many have not left. This exacerbates our current struggle with illegal immigration, affecting our communities' safety and resources. Recent reports show that in 2024/25 around 48,998 individuals have violated our immigration laws and were deported. This is not just a number; it represents potential threats to our national security and economic stability. With the South African populace already engaged in protests against illegal immigration, adding the pressure of hosting a massive event like AFCON feels irresponsible and neglectful of the citizens' concerns. Official Enforcement and Arrests in 2026 Arrests: Police reported nearly 59,000 arrests of undocumented individuals through multidisciplinary initiatives like Operation Shanela. Deportations: Authorities processed more than 53,000 foreign nationals for repatriation, primarily originating from Malawi, Zimbabwe, and Mozambique. Broader Estimates: While unverified social media claims often cite extreme figures, formal census and migration studies place the total international migrant population (both legal and undocumented) at a lower baseline, with official 2022 census data recording roughly 2.4 million total migrants. Instead of focusing on hosting 2027 AFCON, our government should prioritize addressing the illegal immigration crisis. Strengthening border controls and implementing effective deportation processes are crucial steps we must take to protect our borders and uphold the law. Ensuring that those who violated immigration laws are appropriately dealt with is not just about enforcement, but about restoring order and trust within our communities. We understand the benefits and prestige of hosting international events; however, we must first attend to our domestic challenges. South Africa's resources are strained, and the vast sums required to organize AFCON could be better allocated to urgent areas such as healthcare, education, and security measures. South Africa deserves a government that listens to its people and takes action on their behalf. By choosing to decline the hosting of AFCON, we send a strong message that our country prioritizes the welfare and concerns of its citizens above all else. I urge you, Minister of Sport, Arts, and Recreation, to reconsider South Africa's current bid to host or co-host the 2027 AFCON. Let us focus on resolving the pressing issues of illegal immigration before embarking on grand events that could potentially worsen the situation. Like your elections campaign that got you into power we say 'Let them go'. Please sign this petition to help safeguard the future of South Africa and ensure the government's actions reflect the true priorities of our people. - @real_tok_news