South Africa: Ramaphosa Warns Against Xenophobic Attacks, Urges Rule of Law

South African President, Cyril Ramaphosa, has cautioned citizens against attacks on foreign nationals, warning that xenophobia and mob action will not be tolerated under any guise.

Speaking on Monday during his keynote address at the 2026 Freedom Day celebrations held in Bloemfontein, Ramaphosa acknowledged public concerns over illegal migration but insisted that such frustrations must not degenerate into violence or prejudice against foreigners.

“We should never allow the legitimate concerns of our communities about illegal migration to breed prejudice towards our fellow Africans,” the President said. “We must not allow these concerns to give rise to xenophobia directed towards people from other African countries or any other parts of the world.”

While reaffirming government’s commitment to addressing illegal migration and cracking down on employers and businesses violating immigration laws, Ramaphosa drew a clear distinction between lawful enforcement and unlawful attacks on foreign nationals.

“We will not allow people to take the law into their own hands,” he declared.

He noted that authorities were already intensifying efforts to curb illegal migration, investigate corruption within immigration systems, and sanction employers hiring undocumented workers.

Addressing growing anger linked to economic hardship, the President warned that no grievance could justify violence.

“We extend hospitality to those who are guests in our country, with the expectation that generosity is honoured with respect for our society and its laws,” he said.

Recalling South Africa’s liberation history, Ramaphosa stressed that the country’s freedom was made possible through the solidarity of African nations that supported its anti-apartheid struggle.

“As a nation that defeated colonialism and apartheid through international solidarity, we carry a responsibility to advance constitutional values beyond our borders,” he added.

This year’s Freedom Day, marking 32 years of South Africa’s democratic governance, was themed “Freedom and the Rule of Law: Thirty Years of Democratic Citizenship” and held at the judicial capital, Bloemfontein.

The President’s remarks come amid recent reports of rising xenophobic violence in parts of the country, including attacks on Nigerian and Ghanaian traders and tensions over undocumented migration, prompting diplomatic concerns from affected countries.

Ghana and Nigeria have both raised official complaints over the safety of their citizens in South Africa, calling for stronger protection and accountability.

Ramaphosa, however, maintained that South Africa must balance enforcement of its laws with respect for human dignity and continental solidarity.