NAIROBI, Kenya, Jun 29-South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has issued a firm warning that any criminal conduct during planned nationwide protests against undocumented immigration will be met with the full force of the law, as several African governments move to evacuate thousands of their citizens amid fears of escalating xenophobic violence.

📻 Breaking It Down

In a statement Monday ahead of the June 30 demonstrations, Ramaphosa acknowledged widespread public concerns over illegal immigration but stressed that peaceful protest must never descend into intimidation, vigilantism or violence.

“Those who intend to protest should do so peacefully, lawfully and with respect for the rights, dignity and safety of others. Where there is criminal conduct, those responsible will be held accountable, and the law will take its course,” the president said.

He added that while South Africans have legitimate concerns about undocumented immigration, border management, pressure on public services and criminal syndicates exploiting the country’s immigration system, those issues must be addressed through constitutional means.

📌 What You Need to Know

“The right to protest is enshrined in our Constitution. 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,” Ramaphosa said.

The president strongly condemned attempts by private individuals or groups to enforce immigration laws, describing such actions as vigilantism that has no place in a constitutional democracy.

“The painful history of the pass laws reminds us why the authority to demand identification and enforce immigration laws belongs to government law-enforcement officers acting within the Constitution—not to private individuals,” he said.

Ramaphosa also cautioned against targeting foreign nationals living legally in South Africa, noting that many contribute significantly to the country’s economy and society.

“Some foreign nationals who live in South Africa are here lawfully. They work, study, raise families, invest in our economy and contribute positively to our society. They too are entitled to the protection of our laws and our Constitution,” he said.

His appeal comes as governments across Africa intensify efforts to protect their citizens ahead of the demonstrations.

📰 Source: Capital FM Kenya