Ramaphosa Hardens Stance On Illegal Immigration

South Africa’s President Cyril Ramaphosa has said everyone within the country’s borders should be there legally.

Addressing the nation on migration from the Union Buildings in Tshwane on Sunday evening, Ramaphosa said anyone working in South Africa must be legally permitted to do so.

He added that anyone running a business in the country must also be legally permitted to do so.

Ramaphosa’s address was prompted by a surge in public concern and street protests about migration and illegal immigration.

The address came after a recent wave of anti-immigrant demonstrations that revived concerns about xenophobic violence in South Africa.

Protests had escalated, with groups such as March and March demanding that foreign nationals leave by 30 June.

“The challenge we have is that some people have migrated to our country irregularly and are here illegally,” he said.

“South Africa has the right to implement policies and measures that prevent irregular migration.

“South Africa is committed to protect, uphold and advance the human rights of all people in our country, whether citizens or foreign nationals.”

While acknowledging persistently high unemployment, especially among the youth, and the financial strain on many families, Ramaphosa stressed that illegal immigration is not to blame for all of South Africa’s economic problems.

“The answer must be faster economic growth, greater investment, industrial expansion, infrastructure development and the creation of millions of new jobs,” Ramaphosa said.

Ramaphosa described migration as a global issue, saying South Africa has welcomed visitors in accordance with its international obligations and constitutional values.

“In line with our international obligations and our constitutional values, we accept people from other countries in need of protection from wars, conflicts, discrimination and violence,” he said.

He stressed, however, that enforcing immigration laws is the sole responsibility of the state.

Ramaphosa conceded there had been weaknesses in rigorous and focused enforcement, as well as instances of corruption.

He said gaps in the country’s systems had undermined public confidence.

“We accept that responsibility, and we are taking decisive action to correct these shortcomings,” said Ramaphosa.

“South Africans have a right to expect a state that is effective, professional and capable of enforcing its own laws.

“Government will accordingly take action to address the expectations of our people in dealing with the challenge of the violations of our immigration laws.

“I must make it clear that only the authorised government officials may act against violations of the law, including violations of our immigration laws.

“No other person is allowed, for example, to confront someone in the street to demand proof of nationality.”