President Cyril Ramaphosa met with the country’s traditional leaders, including Kings and Queens, on 27 June to discuss concerns regarding planned nationwide protests scheduled for 30 June. The meeting focused on the role of traditional authorities in preventing potential xenophobic violence as anti-immigration groups threaten to forcibly remove undocumented foreign nationals by the end of the month.
Government Stance And Security Readiness
During the engagement, the President emphasised that law enforcement agencies are fully prepared to uphold the rule of law and ensure public safety during the upcoming protests. Government officials have consistently maintained that while the right to protest is protected, criminal acts against individuals or property will not be tolerated.
We will not tolerate any attempts to destabilise the country by anyone, whether marching or otherwise.
Speaking on the government’s broader response, Ramaphosa stated that efforts are underway to ensure that normal economic and social activity continues uninterrupted. He noted that the state is actively engaging with faith-based organisations, labour unions, and the business sector to foster community cohesion.
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.
Context Of Growing Social Tensions
The upcoming protest date follows a period of heightened anti-immigrant sentiment across South Africa, which has included reports of violence and the establishment of temporary transit camps for displaced foreign nationals. This incident is being managed within the framework of the Comprehensive Approach for Migration Management adopted by Cabinet on 3 June, which aims to improve border security and standardise immigration procedures.
The government’s consultation with traditional leaders marks a strategic shift to ensure stability at a local level, as these figures often hold significant influence in curbing civil unrest within their respective communities. Authorities are expected to maintain a heightened security presence throughout the country pending the outcome of the scheduled protests.