Ramaphosa condemns vigilante attacks on migrants, says they betray South Africa’s humanity

President Cyril Ramaphosa has strongly condemned acts of vigilantism targeting foreign nationals, warning that such behaviour tarnishes South Africa’s image and contradicts its founding principles of dignity and compassion.

Speaking during a session in the National Assembly, Ramaphosa said that although the country faces legitimate challenges linked to undocumented migration and pressure on public services, citizens must not allow frustration to turn into violence or discrimination.

He described the recent incidents where groups forcibly removed migrants from healthcare facilities as “a real blight on the character of our nation”, stressing that mob justice and xenophobia have no place in a democratic society built on human rights and solidarity.

Ramaphosa reiterated that the government is addressing migration concerns through lawful and coordinated action. He praised the work of the Border Management Authority, which has deported more than 51,000 undocumented migrants in the past year, and said further measures are being developed to ensure effective border control while protecting human dignity.

He also issued a warning to employers who hire undocumented migrants, reminding them that doing so violates the law and could lead to fines or imprisonment. Proposed employment quota legislation, he said, would ensure that South Africans are prioritised for job opportunities while balancing humanitarian obligations.

“The answer cannot be to turn on one another or abandon our values,” the President said. “South Africa’s identity is rooted in ubuntu — the belief in our shared humanity. We must act lawfully and with compassion."