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South African President, Cyril Ramaphosa has condemned recent violent protests and criminal acts targeting foreign nationals in parts of South Africa, warning that no individual or group has the right to take the law into their own hands.
In his weekly newsletter to the nation on Monday, May 11, 2026, Ramaphosa said the attacks and intimidation of foreign nationals “do not represent the views of South Africa’s people nor reflect our government’s policy."
He described those behind the unrest as “opportunists” exploiting the frustrations of poor communities under the guise of activism.
While condemning xenophobic violence, the president acknowledged growing public concern over undocumented migration, saying illegal immigration poses risks to “social stability, governance and national security.”
He said undocumented migration places severe pressure on healthcare, housing and municipal services, especially in struggling communities, while also distorting the labour market.
Ramaphosa said government was intensifying efforts to secure South Africa’s borders and enforce immigration and labour laws.
He praised the Border Management Authority for intercepting around 450,000 people attempting to enter the country illegally during the last financial year.
The president also reiterated plans announced during the State of the Nation Address to recruit up to 10,000 labour inspectors to clamp down on employers who hire undocumented foreign nationals illegally.