Ramaphosa Warns Against Vigilantism Ahead of June 30 Anti-Immigration Protests

President Cyril Ramaphosa has warned against vigilantism and xenophobia ahead of nationwide protests called by anti-immigrant groups for June 30, saying enforcement of immigration laws rests solely with the state.

Addressing the National Council of Provinces on Thursday, Ramaphosa said the government recognises illegal immigration as a significant challenge, but South Africans should not take the law into their own hands.

“We have also said that responsibility for enforcing our laws rests with the state, and that no individual may stop any person to demand documentation or proof of identity or nationality,” he said.

Ramaphosa said South Africa remains committed to upholding human rights for all people within its borders.

“There is no place for sexism, for xenophobia, for Afrophobia, or any other form of intolerance,” he said.

The president said the government had introduced measures to address illegal immigration through strengthened law enforcement, border security, immigration reform and regional cooperation. He cautioned against actions that could increase social tensions or undermine the rule of law.

“We have put in place security and other measures to deal with any attempts to destabilise our country, whether by citizens or foreign nationals, and we will not tolerate any attempts to destabilise the country by anyone, whether marching or otherwise,” he said.

Ramaphosa said security agencies were on high alert and prepared to respond to threats to public order.

“Our security forces are ready, and those who transgress the measures that we are putting in place will definitely meet the might of the law,” he said.

The South African Police Service is working with other law enforcement agencies, including metro police and private security, ahead of the planned demonstrations.

Ramaphosa expressed confidence that most South Africans would reject violence.

“I am a strong believer that South Africans are peaceful people. They are not xenophobic, they are not Afrophobic, and they want peace,” he said.

He called on political leaders and communities to work with the government and security agencies to prevent destabilisation.

“Where there might be people who want to destabilise the country, we should speak out. We should take whatever action is necessary on a legal basis, and work with our security forces and our government officials,” he said.

Ramaphosa reiterated that while the government is committed to tackling illegal immigration, all actions must comply with the law and South Africa’s constitutional values.

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