President Cyril Ramaphosa has condemned recent violent protests targeting foreign nationals, calling them acts of opportunism that do not represent South African values, whilst reaffirming government’s commitment to tackling illegal migration within the law.

In his weekly newsletter on Monday, Ramaphosa addressed demonstrations that have spread across several major cities, some turning violent, as tensions between South Africans and undocumented immigrants continue to escalate.

“The recent violent protests and criminal acts directed at foreign nationals in parts of our country do not represent the views of South Africa’s people nor reflect our government’s policy. These are the acts of opportunists who are exploiting the legitimate grievances, particularly those of the poor, under the false guise of ‘community activism’,” Ramaphosa said.

The president warned that vigilante actions, including residents stopping people to check identification and conducting searches of private property, would not be tolerated.

“Some of these people are assuming functions that only state officials are permitted to perform. Such lawlessness will not be tolerated, regardless of who the perpetrators or victims are,” he said.

Ramaphosa acknowledged that illegal immigration poses risks to South Africa’s social stability, governance and national security, requiring decisive action within legal frameworks.

He said undocumented migration places strain on healthcare, housing and municipal services, particularly affecting poor communities, whilst distorting the labour market in a country battling high unemployment.

“Some employers are exploiting undocumented, cheaper foreign labour over hiring citizens and paying them legal wages. Not only is this fuelling social tension, it is actively undermining our labour protection regime and eroding the hard-won rights of workers,” Ramaphosa said.

The president called for a whole-of-society approach, noting that some South Africans contribute to the problem through fake marriages with foreign nationals, illegal sale of state-subsidised housing, accepting bribes to facilitate access to social services, and exploiting undocumented labour in households and the informal sector.

Ramaphosa highlighted that the Border Management Authority and Defence Force have strengthened border security, with the BMA intercepting some 450 000 people attempting to cross into South Africa illegally over the past financial year.

Government plans to hire up to 10 000 inspectors through the Department of Labour and Employment to ensure compliance with labour and immigration laws, a measure announced during the State of the Nation Address.

“We continue to arrest and deport undocumented foreign nationals in accordance with the law, as we take forward the fight against corruption within the immigration system,” he said.

Addressing continental criticism of the protests, Ramaphosa defended South Africa’s record on human rights and refugee protection since 1994.

He said refugees in South Africa are not confined to camps but live within communities, participate in the economy and access services like healthcare and education.

ALSO READ: Acting police minister condemns xenophobic attacks on Ghanaian nationals

“Our demonstrated commitment to deepening African integration and solidarity should not be undermined by isolated acts of criminality,” Ramaphosa said.

He noted that many countries across the world, including in Africa, face similar challenges with undocumented migration, calling for cooperation and understanding between nations.

ALSO READ: African countries must tackle instability driving migration, says South Africa

“Like every country in the world, South Africa will exercise its sovereign right to regulate migration, secure our borders and enforce our laws,” the president said.

Ramaphosa concluded by saying there is no place in South Africa for xenophobia, ethnic mobilisation, intolerance or violence.

“Everyone in South Africa is bound by the same laws and we are committed to ensuring that they are respected and upheld by citizens and foreign nationals alike,” he said.

ALSO READ: South Africa unveils R12.5 billion border upgrade to combat illegal migration and boost trade