Ramaphosa Meets Anti-Immigration Leaders Ahead of Planned Nationwide Protests
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has held talks with prominent anti-immigration activists Ngizwe Mchunu and Nkosikhona “Phakel’umthakathi” Ndabandaba in a bid to ease tensions ahead of planned nationwide protests.
The meeting, held on Monday, brought together the President and the leaders of the Insizwa Nobunsizwa movement, who have been at the forefront of campaigns against illegal immigration amid growing public concerns over unemployment, crime and undocumented migrants.
According to the South African Presidency, President Ramaphosa stressed that while citizens have a constitutional right to protest, demonstrations must remain peaceful and be conducted within the confines of the law.
“The President emphasised that the right to protest comes with the responsibility to observe the law and protest peacefully,” presidential spokesperson Vincent Magwenya said.
Ramaphosa also reiterated that the responsibility for enforcing the country’s immigration laws rests solely with the government, as authorities continue efforts to address challenges related to illegal migration.
The meeting came just hours before nationwide demonstrations scheduled for Tuesday, amid concerns that the protests could trigger unrest. Some anti-immigration groups have recently issued unofficial deadlines demanding undocumented migrants leave the country, a move the government has described as unlawful.
The engagement is seen as part of the Presidency’s efforts to reduce tensions through dialogue with grassroots leaders rather than relying solely on public statements or law enforcement measures.
The outcome of the meeting has drawn widespread attention across South Africa, with many closely monitoring whether the President’s appeal for calm will help ensure peaceful demonstrations.
Ramaphosa Meets Anti-Immigration Leaders Ahead of Planned Nationwide Protests