Ramaphosa warns against violence ahead of 30 June protests

As South Africa braces for nationwide anti-illegal immigration protests on Tuesday, President Cyril Ramaphosa has urged demonstrators to exercise their constitutional rights peacefully, warning that violence, intimidation and vigilantism will not be tolerated.

In a statement on Monday, Ramaphosa acknowledged growing public concern over undocumented immigration but stressed that all protests must remain within the bounds of the law.

“The exercise of rights by any citizen in a constitutional democracy cannot be determined by intimidation, threats or ultimatums. It must be determined through democratic institutions, evidence and the rule of law,” the President said.

His appeal comes as several civic organisations prepare to take to the streets, demanding stricter enforcement of immigration laws and stronger action against undocumented foreign nationals.

The Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) says it has approved only two marches after a third planned demonstration was cancelled.

The largest protest, organised by March and March, is expected to attract about 5,000 participants. Protestors will march from Beyers Naudé Square to Constitution Hill, where they intend to hand over a memorandum calling for improved inner-city safety and tougher immigration enforcement.

JMPD spokesperson, Xolani Fihla, says officers will be deployed throughout the day and warned that any unauthorised gatherings or attempts to disrupt public order will be dealt with swiftly.

Despite organising one of the largest demonstrations, March and March says it cannot be held responsible for any violence that may occur.

“If anyone wants to point a finger at someone who must take responsibility, start with those who allowed illegal immigration in the first place. Those are the ones who must take responsibility for anything that happens on the 30th,” said the movement’s leader, Jacinta Ngobese-Zuma.​

Ahead of the demonstrations, authorities have deployed additional police and private security personnel as part of a security operation estimated to cost R600 million.

Ramaphosa reiterated that while the government is strengthening border management, tightening immigration enforcement and addressing corruption within the asylum and visa system, foreign nationals who are legally in South Africa remain entitled to the full protection of the Constitution.

“Where our systems have failed, they must be corrected. Where corruption has enabled illegal immigration, those responsible must be held accountable. Where enforcement has been inadequate, it must improve,” he said.

Tuesday, 30 June 2026 remains a normal working day.

Public services, schools and businesses are expected to continue operating as normal.

Stay informed through official channels and verify information before sharing.#GovZAUpdates pic.twitter.com/emu9kPyLXt

— South African Government (@GovernmentZA) June 29, 2026

Media Statement: South Africa Human Rights Commission calls for peace and adherence to the rule of law during the 30 June marches https://t.co/RO8egNe09Y pic.twitter.com/7Clk6o4NAJ

— SAHRCommission (@SAHRCommission) June 29, 2026

Happening now in Soweto

Peaceful march to ask illegal foreigners to leave our country before the end of business tomorrow 30th June, and for this useless government to finally agree that we have a crisis of illegal immigrants in SA

He must declare this crisis as a state of… pic.twitter.com/o9Aq602k0A

— BK kaNhlangothi (@Bhekabk) June 29, 2026