Ramaphosa Warns Against Violence at Anti-Immigration Protests as African Nations Evacuate Citizens

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa warned that criminal acts during planned nationwide protests against undocumented immigration would face the full force of the law. In a statement issued Monday, Ramaphosa acknowledged public concerns over illegal immigration, border management, and pressure on public services, but said demonstrations must remain peaceful and lawful.

"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.

Governments across Africa have begun repatriating citizens ahead of the June 30 demonstrations. Uganda directed the evacuation of its nationals after months of rising anti-migrant violence, with 746 Ugandans registered for government-funded charter flights.

Malawi has processed more than 15,000 citizens seeking to leave, many sheltering in temporary camps. Zimbabwe has started evacuations, Nigeria has repatriated hundreds on chartered flights, and Ghana has airlifted nationals through OR Tambo International Airport.

Ramaphosa condemned private attempts to enforce immigration laws, calling such actions 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.

The president also cautioned against targeting foreign nationals living lawfully in South Africa, noting their economic and social contributions. "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," Ramaphosa said. He welcomed assurances from some protest organizers that the demonstrations would remain peaceful and said South Africa remains committed to strengthening border management and tightening immigration controls through constitutional means.