Date: April 27, 2026 l By Andrew Baba, Dalena Reporters
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has issued a strong warning to citizens against xenophobia and mob justice, urging restraint amid growing tensions involving foreign nationals across several provinces.
Speaking during a national address linked to Freedom Day commemorations, Ramaphosa stressed that concerns about illegal migration must not be allowed to fuel prejudice or violence against people from other African countries.
He reminded South Africans of the country’s historical ties to the continent, noting that African nations played a crucial role in supporting the anti-apartheid struggle. According to him, this shared history makes it morally and politically unacceptable to turn against fellow Africans living in South Africa.
“We must never allow legitimate concerns about illegal migration to breed xenophobia,” the president said, adding that no citizen has the right to take the law into their own hands.
The remarks come amid renewed reports of attacks and harassment targeting foreign nationals in parts of the country, with Ghana, Nigeria, and other African states reportedly expressing concern over the safety of their citizens.
Ramaphosa also emphasized that the government is stepping up efforts to address illegal migration and corruption within the immigration system. However, he warned that enforcement measures must remain within the bounds of law and constitutional protections.
Security analysts say the president’s comments reflect growing pressure on authorities to balance public frustration over unemployment and service delivery with South Africa’s constitutional commitment to human rights and regional solidarity.
Human rights observers have long warned that xenophobic violence in South Africa tends to escalate during periods of economic strain, often leading to displacement, property destruction, and strained diplomatic relations with neighboring countries.
The presidency reiterated that law enforcement agencies have been instructed to act decisively against anyone inciting or participating in attacks on foreign nationals, while also encouraging communities to report incidents rather than engage in vigilante action.
As tensions persist, Ramaphosa’s message underscores the government’s attempt to prevent further escalation while reaffirming South Africa’s position as a constitutional democracy grounded in African solidarity and the principle of ubuntu.