President Cyril Ramaphosa has urged calm and respect for the rule of law ahead of planned nationwide protests on 30 June, as tensions rise in South Africa over undocumented immigration and public safety concerns.
In a public statement, Ramaphosa acknowledged growing frustrations among South Africans regarding illegal immigration, border control weaknesses, pressure on public services, and criminal syndicates exploiting migration systems. He stressed that while these concerns are legitimate, they must be addressed through constitutional and democratic processes rather than intimidation or violence.
He reaffirmed that the right to protest is protected under the Constitution, but warned that it does not extend to vandalism, threats, or vigilantism.
“The right to protest is enshrined in our Constitution. It is a credit to our robust democratic order that people are able to express their grievances openly. But the right to protest and freedom of expression does not allow people to threaten or intimidate others, or to engage in acts of vandalism or violence.” Read part of the statement.
Authorities, he said, will act against any unlawful conduct during demonstrations. President Ramaphosa has disclosed that the government is already implementing reforms aimed at strengthening border security, improving asylum and visa systems, and tackling corruption within immigration enforcement structures.
He also emphasized ongoing consultations with traditional leaders, religious institutions, labour unions, and civil society organisations aimed at building a coordinated national response to immigration challenges.
He has further warned against individuals or groups attempting to enforce immigration rules outside the law, calling such actions “vigilantism” and a threat to South Africa’s constitutional order.
Meanwhile, reports indicate that a new group of Nigerian nationals has returned home after fleeing what they describe as xenophobic attacks and anti-immigrant intimidation in South Africa.
Arriving in Abuja, returnees recounted traumatic experiences, including targeted harassment, physical assaults, and the destruction or loss of businesses and livelihoods. Some said they no longer felt safe living or working in South Africa due to rising hostility toward foreigners.
According to reports, the Nigerian government organised voluntary repatriation flights after more than 1,000 citizens registered to return home. The latest departures come amid broader evacuations involving other African countries, including Ghana, Malawi, and Mozambique, as concerns grow over the safety of migrants in South Africa.
Ramaphosa has urged all planned protest organisers to ensure demonstrations remain peaceful and lawful, welcoming assurances from some groups that they oppose violence.
He also emphasized that foreign nationals living legally in South Africa are protected under the Constitution and contribute positively to society through work, study, and investment.
“No cause, however legitimate, can justify unlawful means,” the President said, warning against actions rooted in intimidation or collective punishment.
Ramaphosa called on South Africans to reject violence and division, urging citizens to pursue solutions through dialogue, democratic institutions, and the rule of law.
