Pauline Hanson, Australia's controversial rightwing politician, has asked the government of Prime Minister John Howard to tighten immigration laws to bar "diseased Africans" in general and "black South Africans" in particular from entering the country.
Hanson appeared to be attempting yet another comeback into politics after being convicted of electoral fraud by the electoral commission of the state of Queensland more than two years ago.
Her remarks raised a storm this week among black immigrants and even in the capital Canberra.
"I want to know why black South Africans with Aids are being allowed to come to Australia," Hanson said during an exclusive interview with the reputable Ten News Network this week. "Why are they being allowed to come here and put a strain on our medical facilities?"
The former fish-and-chips trader lashed out at what she called "relaxed" immigration procedures which she said were bringing Aids to Australia.
When she was asked about white South Africans by Ten Network interviewer Sandra Sally, Hanson said white South Africans were rigorously checked compared to their black counterparts.
This has drawn sharp reactions from front bench members of the Howard government, who have called for an end to Hanson's statements, saying they might make Australia appear racist.
An African immigration lawyer said what Hanson did not realise was that every African who came to Australia either to study or immigrate was tested for HIV and Aids before being granted a visa. Rarely was one granted to an infected person.
Some commentators urged foreigners in Australia to ignore Hanson, saying she was just drumming up support for her forthcoming book based on her experience after a three-month conviction for allegedly dishonestly claiming almost $320 000 (R1,8-million) from the electoral commission in reimbursement over two years ago.
More than a decade ago, Hanson warned that Australia would be swamped by Asians because of the ease with which they could gain citizenship. She attacked Muslims for failing to assimilate in Australian society and to learn English.
"If you don't want to embrace Australian values I say go to the airport and head back home," Hanson said.
"We're bringing in people from South Africa at the moment. There's a huge amount coming into Australia, who have diseases; they've got Aids."
"They are of no benefit to this country whatsoever, they'll never be able to work. And what my main concern is, is the diseases that they're bringing in and yet no one is saying or doing anything about it."
Hanson said she wanted to contest a seat in federal parliament so that she could stop diseased Africans coming in. - Independent foreign Service