Ramaphosa Vows Action as South Africa Faces Renewed Xenophobic Violence and Regional Concern

June 8, 2026

Mintesinot Nigussie

Cyril Ramaphosa has said the government will act against groups accused of exploiting concerns over illegal immigration for political, personal and criminal purposes, as xenophobic unrest continues to generate regional consequences.

The remarks were delivered in a televised address on Sunday, as xenophobic unrest continued to generate regional concern and prompted responses from neighbouring states.

Ramaphosa warned that such groups should not be allowed to destabilise the country through lawlessness and violence, stressing that immigration enforcement is solely the responsibility of the state.

He also cautioned the public against stopping individuals on the streets to demand identification, urging adherence to official law enforcement procedures.

The president said migrants were being wrongly blamed for broader socioeconomic challenges, including poverty and high unemployment.

Government measures under consideration include stricter enforcement of immigration laws, broader legal reforms and cooperation with other countries aimed at addressing the root causes of illegal migration.