By By: Staff Writer
South Africa — President Cyril Ramaphosa has called for calm ahead of planned nationwide protests against undocumented immigration, saying the right to demonstrate must be balanced with responsibility, respect for the law, and the safety of all people in the country.
In a letter “From the Desk of the President” released Monday, Ramaphosa acknowledged public concerns over illegal immigration, border management, pressure on public services, and criminal networks exploiting the system. “These concerns are real and they deserve to be heard,” he said.
Constitutional right, not a license for violence
Ramaphosa stressed that the Constitution protects protest and freedom of expression, but said those rights do not extend to threats, intimidation, vandalism or violence. “South Africa is a constitutional republic governed by the rule of law,” he wrote, adding that rights in a democracy are determined through institutions, evidence and legal process, not ultimatums.
He warned against vigilantism, referencing South Africa’s history of pass laws. “Taking the law into one’s own hands is vigilantism and has no place in our constitutional democracy,” Ramaphosa said, noting that only law-enforcement officers acting within the Constitution may demand identification or enforce immigration rules.
Government pledges immigration reform and accountability
The President said government has accepted that immigration systems require “substantial reform” and is moving to strengthen border management, increase enforcement against undocumented immigration, and improve the integrity of asylum and visa processes. He also committed to action against corruption that has weakened controls.
“Where corruption has enabled illegal immigration, those responsible must be held accountable,” Ramaphosa stated. He added that consultations have been held with traditional leaders, Khoi-San leaders, trade unions, business, religious groups and civil society to build support for the measures.
Protection for lawful foreign nationals
Ramaphosa drew a distinction between undocumented immigration and foreign nationals who are in South Africa lawfully. “They too are entitled to the protection of our laws and our Constitution,” he said, referring to those who work, study, raise families and invest in the economy.
He welcomed assurances from some protest organisers that they oppose violence, but said they “will be held to this undertaking” because no cause justifies unlawful acts. Law-enforcement authorities, he said, “stand ready in defence of the rule of law.”
“Choose law over lawlessness”
Closing his letter, Ramaphosa said South Africa has overcome past crises by choosing dialogue and justice over confrontation and vengeance. “Let us protect both our borders and our Constitution, both our security and our humanity,” he wrote.
The planned demonstrations are scheduled for Tuesday, June 30.
