South Africa President Cyril Ramaphosa has condemned recent violent protests and criminal acts targeting foreign nationals in parts of the country, saying they do not reflect the views of South Africans or government policy.
In a written statement, Ramaphosa said the incidents are being driven by opportunists who are exploiting legitimate grievances, particularly among poor communities, under the false guise of “community activism.”
He warned that some individuals are unlawfully taking on state functions such as stopping people, checking identification, and searching private property, adding that such lawlessness will not be tolerated “regardless of who the perpetrators or victims are.”
Government Flags Risks of Illegal Immigration
At the same time, the President stressed that South Africa must deal decisively and within the law with illegal immigration, which he said poses risks to social stability, governance and national security.
He noted that undocumented migration places strain on healthcare, housing and municipal services, especially in poor communities.
Ramaphosa also highlighted the impact on the labour market, saying some employers are exploiting undocumented foreign workers instead of hiring citizens and paying lawful wages.
According to him, this is fuelling social tensions while undermining labour protections and eroding workers’ rights.
On border control, he said the government is balancing constitutional and international obligations with national security concerns.
The Border Management Authority (BMA) and the Defence Force, he said, are strengthening border security and tackling cross-border crime. He commended the BMA for intercepting about 450,000 people attempting to enter South Africa illegally in the past financial year.
He added that government is also tightening migration and citizenship systems while increasing enforcement in workplaces.
Call for Collective Responsibility
Ramaphosa emphasized that illegal immigration is a society-wide challenge requiring cooperation between government, the private sector and citizens.
The President further urged South Africans to reject actions that damage the country’s international reputation and undermine African solidarity.
He said that since 1994, South Africa has promoted human rights, African integration and cooperation, supported by a strong refugee protection framework that allows displaced persons to live in communities, work and access services such as healthcare and education.
He added that South Africa continues to deepen ties with the rest of Africa, including through education, cultural exchanges and the Pan-African Parliament, noting that millions of visitors from African countries contribute to tourism each year.
Ramaphosa stated that while South Africa, like many countries, faces migration pressures, it will continue to assert its sovereign right to regulate migration, secure borders and enforce laws.
He stressed that there is no place in the country for xenophobia, ethnic mobilisation, intolerance or violence, adding that all people in South Africa are bound by the same laws regardless of nationality.
