South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has called on citizens to demonstrate peacefully during planned anti-immigration protests on Monday, warning that violence and vigilantism have no place in the country’s democracy.
In a national address on Monday, Ramaphosa acknowledged public concerns over undocumented immigration and border security but stressed that grievances must be expressed lawfully.
“South Africans have raised deep concerns about illegal immigration, border management, pressure on public services, criminal syndicates that exploit our immigration system and the impact these challenges have on communities. These concerns are real and they deserve to be heard,” he said.
The president emphasised that the constitutional right to protest does not extend to criminal acts. “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,” Ramaphosa stated.
He highlighted government efforts to reform the immigration system, strengthen border controls and combat corruption, while defending the rights of legally resident foreigners who contribute to the economy.
Ramaphosa warned that security forces would enforce the law against any criminal conduct during the protests. “Where there is criminal conduct, those responsible will be held accountable and the law will take its course,” he said.
The address comes amid growing tensions over immigration, with several groups planning demonstrations on June 30.
