Ramaphosa Promises Security Crackdown as Anti-Immigration Protests Loom on June 30

Ramaphosa Promises Security Crackdown as Anti-Immigration Protests Loom on June 30

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has assured citizens that security forces are fully prepared ahead of nationwide anti-immigration protests scheduled for June 30, warning that any attempt to destabilise the country will not be tolerated.

Security Forces on High Alert

Speaking during a question-and-answer session in the National Council of Provinces (NCOP), Ramaphosa said the government expects Tuesday to remain a normal working day despite the planned demonstrations. He addressed concerns around illegal immigration, law enforcement corruption, and illicit trade.

“Our security forces will be ready to prevent anyone from wanting to destabilise the country,” Ramaphosa stated. He made clear that this applies to both citizens and foreign nationals.

Who Is Behind the Protests?

More than 20 anti-migrant organisations and civil groups are driving the June 30 demonstrations, demanding that undocumented foreign nationals leave South Africa by Tuesday. The movement is led by the March and March Movement, whose leader Jacinta Ngobese-Zuma claims widespread public support.

Organisers have pledged that the protests will remain peaceful, with no violence, looting, or deaths. However, the movement is pressing ahead despite allegedly being refused permission by the eThekwini Municipality, which cited insufficient notice.

Government’s Immigration Reform Plan

Ramaphosa outlined a series of concrete measures his government is rolling out to tackle illegal immigration:

The president noted that these reforms, spearheaded by Minister Leon Schreiber, have been long in the making. He added that the approach has been endorsed by the Presidential Coordinating Council, which unites all three spheres of government and traditional leaders.

A Delicate Balancing Act

Ramaphosa acknowledged the constitutional right to peaceful protest while drawing a firm line against criminality. “Everyone has the constitutional right to protest peacefully and within the confines of the law,” he said. “However, criminality, intimidation, violence, the destruction of property and any attempt to undermine public safety will not be tolerated.”

The government has also held briefings with faith-based organisations, traditional leaders, organised labour, and business groups as part of its broader response to immigration violations. With tensions running high, all eyes will be on South Africa’s streets come Tuesday.