“Majority Of South Africans Do Not Align With The Movement”

Your Excellency, South Africa has been on headline news these days with many protests. What is the prevailing situation? It is true that newspapers have referred “many protests” taking place across the country, but what is important to note is that, the protests were organised by one ground, the March and March movement, which is the same group that presented memorandums of demands to government leaders in Durban, Pretoria and Johannesburg. The movement has been protesting against illegal immigration, demanding the urgent removal of undocumented foreign nationals, citing concerns over high unemployment among locals, overcrowded public services, and the employment of illegal immigrants. Apart from above cities, there have been no such protests in other cities and towns across South Africa. The majority of South Africans have not only stayed away from the protests. They also do not align themselves with the messages propagated by the group. It is worthwhile to emphasize that South Africa is a diverse and peaceful country, and its residents include citizens from many nations around the world. Everyone entering South Africa is expected to abide by South African law, including strictly adhering to visa regulations and other immigration laws. South Africa remains guided by the principles of cooperation, mutual respect, and shared development, while firmly upholding the rule of law within its borders. All individuals within the country are expected to comply with the law and contribute positively to society. What measures has the government put in place to prevent xenophobic attacks? In his address to the nation on 27 April 2026, President Cyril Ramaphosa strongly condemned the recent violence against foreign nationals in South Africa. He stated that, while legitimate concerns over immigration exist, they cannot justify criminality and mob justice. He affirmed the government’s tightening of controls on illegal migration, demanding that foreigners respect South African laws while urging citizens not to turn frustrations into violence. Since then, the government of South Africa has been leaving no stone unturned. On 5 May 2026, the National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure (NATJOINTS), released a statement calling on all individuals and organisations participating in marches to conduct themselves responsibly and within the confines of the law. While the Constitution of our country guarantees the right to peaceful protest, NATJOINTS emphasises that this right must be exercised without violence, intimidation, or any form of unlawful conduct. Protesters are strongly urged to; refrain from inciting violence or engaging in acts of intimidation against any...