Only authorised agencies can enforce laws, Ramaphosa condemns Xenophobia

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has strongly condemned xenophobia and reaffirmed his government's commitment to managing migration through legal channels, emphasizing that violence, intimidation, and misinformation are unacceptable.

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Only authorised law enforcement agencies may act against violations of the law.

Addressing the nation, Ramaphosa outlined specific behaviors that are not tolerated, including unauthorized individuals demanding documentation, blocking access to public services, and perpetrating violence against foreign nationals. He also denounced racism, sexism, xenophobia, Afrophobia, and other forms of intolerance, alongside the spread of fake news and incitement on social media. The President also criticized employers who exploit undocumented workers.

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all people must be treated with dignity and respect.

"Only authorised law enforcement agencies may act against violations of the law," Ramaphosa stated, underscoring that "all people must be treated with dignity and respect," irrespective of their nationality or immigration status. He announced the adoption of a Comprehensive Approach for Migration Management, designed to bolster border security, enforce immigration laws, combat corruption, and address policy loopholes related to illegal immigration.

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As government our objective is clear. We want a South Africa where every person who enters the country does so lawfully; a South Africa where immigration laws are respected and enforced; a South Africa where businesses compete fairly; a South Africa where communities feel safe and secure, and a South Africa that remains true to its constitutional values and its commitment to human dignity.

The strategy, approved by the Cabinet and endorsed by the President’s Coordinating Council, is built on five pillars: cracking down on immigration and labor law violations, preventing illegal entries, eradicating corruption within the immigration system, strengthening relevant laws and policies, and enhancing regional cooperation. Ramaphosa highlighted progress, noting that the Border Management Authority intercepted over 450,000 individuals attempting to enter South Africa illegally in the past year. He also announced plans to establish dedicated immigration courts.

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in the past year alone, the BMA managed to intercept and stop over 450,000 people who were attempting to enter South Africa illegally.