Protest peacefully, lawfully, Ramaphosa tells South Africans ahead of Tuesday rally

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has called on citizens to exercise their right to protest peacefully and within the legal framework, ahead of planned anti-immigration rallies on June 30. He acknowledged the "real" concerns raised by South Africans regarding undocumented immigration, border security, pressure on public services, and criminal syndicates exploiting the system.

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Tomorrow, 30 June, marks the date that several groupings have identified for protests against undocumented immigration in South Africa.

Ramaphosa emphasized that while the constitution protects the right to protest and express grievances, this freedom does not extend to threats, intimidation, vandalism, or violence. He stressed that "freedom comes with responsibility" and that criminal acts during protests would not be tolerated.

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South Africans have raised deep concerns about illegal immigration, border management, pressure on public services, criminal syndicates that exploit our immigration system and the impact these challenges have on communities.

The president assured the nation that the government recognizes the need for immigration system reforms. Measures are underway to strengthen border management, increase enforcement against undocumented immigration, improve the integrity of visa and asylum processes, and combat corruption that has weakened immigration controls. He stated that where systems have failed or corruption has enabled illegal immigration, accountability and improvements in enforcement are necessary.

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These concerns are real and they deserve to be heard.

Ramaphosa also noted that consultations have occurred with various stakeholders, including traditional leaders, labor unions, business groups, and religious organizations. Many of these groups have supported government efforts and advocated for tolerance and adherence to the rule of law. The president reiterated that criminal acts committed during demonstrations would not be tolerated, reinforcing the balance between rights and responsibilities in a democratic society.

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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.