Kubayi urges peaceful protests following anti-illegal immigration demonstrations

Speaking during a Justice, Crime Prevention and Security (JCPS) Cluster media briefing in Pretoria on Monday, Justice and Constitutional Development Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi stressed the importance of peaceful protests and proper coordination with authorities.

The briefing followed a meeting between security cluster ministers, senior national security officials, political parties and various organisations involved in protests and community marches against illegal foreign nationals across the country.

Kubayi said the government fully supports the constitutional right to protest and freedom of expression, but warned that organisers must notify law enforcement agencies before demonstrations take place.

She explained that informing authorities about planned marches allows the state to put security measures in place to protect both protesters and the public. Kubayi said that when organisers fail to communicate with the state, they assume responsibility and liability for incidents that may occur during the demonstrations.

The Minister also highlighted the need to protect all citizens, including those not participating in protests, saying public safety remains a priority.

Addressing reports of planned nationwide protests against illegal immigration on 30 June, Kubayi reiterated that the government does not oppose peaceful demonstrations. She appealed to organisers to cooperate with authorities by providing details such as expected crowd sizes to enable adequate law enforcement deployment.

Kubayi said South Africa is not a xenophobic country and acknowledged that many migrants are legally residing in the country. She added that the government remains committed to dealing with socio-economic challenges while ensuring that law enforcement acts against undocumented immigrants and criminals in line with the law.

The Minister further announced that deputy ministers will be deployed across communities to monitor compliance with laws and assess challenges on the ground. She said the government wants citizens to see visible action through ongoing law enforcement operations, including Operation Shanela.

Reflecting on the July 2021 unrest, Kubayi said the government has learnt important lessons about preventing violence, protecting businesses and infrastructure, and ensuring accountability for criminal acts committed during protests.

She warned that anyone responsible for violence, destruction or loss of life during demonstrations would be held accountable.