South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has urged citizens not to take the law into their own hands ahead of planned nationwide protests over illegal immigration on 30 June, saying the government is prepared to maintain law and order while addressing immigration challenges through lawful means.
Speaking during a question-and-answer session in the National Council of Provinces (NCOP), Ramaphosa stressed that enforcing immigration laws remained the responsibility of the state and warned against vigilantism, xenophobia and attempts to destabilise the country.
Ramaphosa Says Security Forces Are Ready
IOL reports that Ramaphosa said authorities had stepped up security measures ahead of the planned demonstrations and expressed confidence that South Africans would reject violence.
“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.”
The president reiterated that while illegal immigration remained a serious concern, all action must be taken within the law.
“There is no place for sexism, for xenophobia, for Afrophobia, or any other form of intolerance.”
Ramaphosa added that security agencies were prepared to respond to any 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.”
Government Details Measures On Immigration
IOL reports that more than 20 organisations have backed the planned demonstrations, with organisers saying they expect peaceful protests calling for action against undocumented migrants.
Ramaphosa said government had already introduced several measures aimed at addressing illegal immigration, including strengthening border security, reforming the asylum system and increasing workplace inspections.
According to IOL, he also said the Department of Employment and Labour was recruiting additional inspectors while government continued implementing immigration reforms approved by Cabinet.
“We are taking measures to ensure that the 30th becomes a normal day where people will be able to work, to go about their business.”
The president urged political leaders, communities and civil society to work with law enforcement to preserve peace.
“Where there might be people who want to destabilise the country, we should speak out. We should take whatever action that is necessary on a legal basis, and work with our security forces, and work with our government officials.”
The planned demonstrations are expected to take place on 30 June as authorities continue monitoring the security situation across the country.
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