The South African government has commended citizens for exercising their constitutional right to protest peacefully during Tuesday's migration-related demonstrations, saying their conduct reflects the strength of the country's democracy.
In a statement, the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) thanked South Africans, community leaders and law enforcement agencies for ensuring that demonstrations remained largely peaceful.
"We commend citizens, community leaders, organisers, civil society formations, religious leaders and law enforcement agencies for their commitment to peace, restraint and respect for the rule of law throughout the country," the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) said in a statement.
Police Respond To Isolated Criminal Incidents
Government said policing operations have been effective, with demonstrations across the country remaining mostly peaceful.
However, police responded to isolated incidents involving looting and attempted looting during the protests.
Authorities warned that anyone who used the demonstrations to commit criminal acts would face the full force of the law, with police continuing efforts to identify, arrest and prosecute those responsible.
Government Acknowledges Citizens' Concerns
The GCIS said the peaceful demonstrations showed that South Africans can express their concerns lawfully while respecting the rights and dignity of others.
"The peaceful conduct displayed today reflects the strength of our democracy and demonstrates that South Africans can voice their concerns firmly and lawfully while respecting the rights and dignity of others.
"Government acknowledges that many citizens have genuine concerns about lack of economic opportunities, irregular migration, service delivery, the challenges of border management and general public safety. These concerns deserve to be heard and addressed systematically through lawful and democratic processes," it said.
Government also welcomed the rejection of violence, vigilantism, intimidation, provocation, looting and damage to public and private property.
"Such actions have no place in a constitutional democracy and undermine the goals of safety and economic prosperity that communities seek to achieve. As government, we wish to reaffirm our unwavering commitment to implementing the Comprehensive Approach for Migration Management as announced by President Ramaphosa."
Government's Migration Management Plan
According to government, the Comprehensive Approach for Migration Management focuses on several key areas, including:
- Strengthening immigration and labour law enforcement
- Securing South Africa's borders
- Improving migration management systems
- Closing legislative and policy gaps
- Working with African countries to address migration challenges collaboratively
Progress Made On Deportations And Repatriations
Government said it continues to make significant progress in the deportation and repatriation of foreign nationals in affected provinces.
"To date, the latest statistics indicate that we have successfully repatriated 4286 foreign nationals and deported a further 419 in the past few days.
"We want to assure all South Africans that government will continue to actively manage migration through lawful, coordinated and constitutional measures. Our objective remains clear: a South Africa where immigration laws are respected and enforced, where borders are secure, where communities are safe, where businesses compete fairly, and where human dignity and constitutional values are upheld," said the GCIS.
