WATCH | ‘Rubbish story’: Ramaphosa fires back at claims ANC is using asylum seekers to win votes

Johannesburg – President Cyril Ramaphosa has dismissed claims that the African National Congress (ANC) is using asylum seekers to boost its support in the upcoming local government elections, describing the allegations as “a rubbish story”.

Ramaphosa was speaking at the Black Wednesday commemoration in Sandton on Monday, where he responded to a social media post alleging that asylum seekers were being registered to vote for the governing party.

“There’s just no way that the ANC would get asylum seekers to vote for it. There’s just no way. It’s a rubbish story. It does not exist. We never want to do something like that,” he said.

The president said the allegations demonstrated how easily unverified claims could spread online without those responsible being held accountable.

He warned that social media platforms could be used to plant stories that gain traction despite lacking evidence.

The president’s response extended beyond the allegations against the ANC, with Ramaphosa raising concerns about the wider consequences of false information circulating online.

He referred to the July 2021 unrest, during which violence, looting and damage to property resulted in deaths and significant economic losses.

Ramaphosa said South Africa needed to examine the risks posed by misinformation while protecting constitutional rights, including freedom of expression and freedom of association.

WATCH | “Rubbish,” says President Cyril Ramaphosa, dismissing claims that the ANC would mobilise asylum seekers to vote for the party. He also raises concerns about the harmful impact of unregulated information in the country. https://t.co/2tzCcwR1XM

— Times LIVE (@TimesLIVE) October 20, 2026

He acknowledged that some countries were considering restrictions on social media, particularly for children, but said South Africa’s constitutional commitments shaped its approach.

Ramaphosa also emphasised the importance of a free and independent media in holding those in power accountable.

His comments come amid heightened tensions over immigration and asylum applications ahead of the November 4 local government elections.

The claims have circulated online amid confusion over a Constitutional Court ruling concerning access to South Africa’s asylum system.

However, the ruling does not grant asylum seekers citizenship or voting rights.

The Electoral Commission of South Africa confirmed that asylum seekers cannot vote in the country’s elections.

Only eligible South African citizens who meet the registration requirements can vote.

The online allegations have therefore added to an already sensitive debate about immigration, election integrity and the spread of disinformation.

Follow African Insider on Facebook, X and Instagram

For more African news, visit Africaninsider.com