South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has vowed to take firm action against anyone attempting to destabilize the country ahead of planned nationwide anti-immigrant marches scheduled for June 30.
The warning comes after citizen-led groups called on undocumented foreign nationals to leave South Africa before the deadline and announced plans for coordinated demonstrations against illegal immigration. The campaign has heightened fears of renewed xenophobic violence, following weeks of unrest that have already claimed several lives.
Speaking before the upper house of Parliament, Ramaphosa said security agencies are fully prepared to maintain law and order. He stressed that anyone who violates the law during the planned protests will face the full force of the country's justice system.
Police have announced increased security measures across the country, while government officials are working with community and traditional leaders, including the influential Zulu Royal House, to prevent violence and promote calm.
The rising tensions have already prompted thousands of migrants from countries including Nigeria, Ghana, Malawi, and Mozambique to return home voluntarily. Temporary camps have been established in Johannesburg and Durban as many foreign nationals wait for transportation, raising concerns among humanitarian organizations about worsening living conditions and the growing need for assistance.
South Africa remains one of Africa's largest economies and has long attracted people seeking employment. However, with unemployment remaining above 30 percent, competition for jobs has fueled resentment toward migrants. While the government and labour unions argue that immigrants are being unfairly blamed for deeper economic and social problems, some political figures have used the issue to gain support ahead of upcoming local elections.
South Africa has experienced several deadly outbreaks of xenophobic violence in the past. Riots in 2008 left dozens dead, while attacks on foreign-owned businesses in 2019 also resulted in multiple fatalities and widespread destruction. Authorities hope the strengthened security measures will prevent a repeat of those events and ensure that June 30 passes peacefully.
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