Members of the March and March movement took to the streets in recent demonstrations, drawing attention and controversy over their rhetoric and the broader debate on immigration, crime, and social cohesion in South Africa.
Citizens have legitimate concerns about migration and illegal immigration, the president said in his address.
“Many South Africans are asking difficult but legitimate questions…They are concerned about safety, security and the rule of law. These concerns are real. They deserve to be heard. They deserve to be addressed,” Ramaphosa said.
He said South Africa has immigration laws that need to be respected, and the country has a right to prevent irregular migration. Only authorised government officials may act against violations of the law, and that “no other person is allowed, for example, to confront someone in the street to demand proof of nationality”.
On Sunday, President Cyril Ramaphosa announced five measures the government will take to address mounting dissatisfaction with immigration and undocumented immigrants. The president's speech coincides with ongoing demonstrations against undocumented immigrants.
