This archive report was first published on 11 June 2020.
Published on June 11, 2020, Pearl Thusi's comments on the #PutSouthAfricansFirstNow movement sparked controversy, but she remains steadfast in her stance.
At the heart of the debate is the 'killing' of fellow Africans, a topic that has left many with mixed views.
While some have criticized Pearl's views, others have rallied behind her, emphasizing that the movement's aim is to ask the government to prioritize South African citizens and reduce the unemployment rate.
"Killing African nationals that reside in South Africa is something I will never defend. Defending borders drawn by colonizers will never be something I limit myself with." — Pearl Thusi (@PearlThusi) June 7, 2020
Responding to the backlash, Pearl has urged people to hold the government accountable for their actions, rather than targeting foreign nationals.
"And while there is a disproportionate economic standing between indigenous people of SA and those with colonial ancestry, why have you made another black man your enemy when it's your government that has let you down?"
Pearl has called on people to direct their anger towards the government, which has made promises to them but failed to deliver.
"Have we made our government accountable for so many key issues... looted government funds, land issue, corruption the list goes on... No. That's where your hashtags must be heard. Not fellow citizens. Direct your anger towards the government that made promises to you!"
