Ramaphosa Denounces Violence Amid Anti-Illegal Immigration Protests and Calls for Unity

President Denounces Unrest Linked to Immigration Tensions

President Cyril Ramaphosa has spoken out against the recent violence, looting, and attacks on businesses connected to anti-illegal immigration protests. He warned that criminal elements are exploiting community tensions related to migration, threatening lives, property, and economic stability.

Speaking at the 170th anniversary gala of the Durban Chamber of Commerce and Industry in KwaZulu-Natal, Ramaphosa emphasised the government’s commitment to protecting lawful businesses and restoring order. He cautioned that concerns about illegal immigration must not be used as an excuse for criminal acts or to divide communities.

“There are those who are exploiting public sentiment around illegal migration to stir up communities and to provide cover for criminality,” he said.

Attacks on Businesses and Government Response

The president pointed to several recent incidents impacting small businesses in eThekwini, including looting and vandalism. Though he described these as isolated, Ramaphosa conveyed that the government is taking proactive measures to maintain security. An investigation is underway regarding the death of a man in Durban’s central business district.

In response to these challenges, Ramaphosa has authorised the deployment of the South African National Defence Force in KwaZulu-Natal until the end of November, reflecting a firm stance on safeguarding the province during this period of uncertainty.

Climate of Recovery Amid Challenges

The president’s remarks occur against a backdrop of a city working to recover from past setbacks. Durban has faced considerable adversity in recent years, including the 2021 unrest and major floods in 2022. Ramaphosa recalled his testimony to the South African Human Rights Commission in 2022, emphasising the determination to reconstruct and stand united as a community.

“We refused to be divided. And we were determined to rebuild,” Ramaphosa reflected.

He praised the Durban Chamber of Commerce and Industry for leading recovery efforts, noting the successful restoration of economic activity and essential infrastructure. The Chamber and local businesses have played a central role in the region’s progress, working alongside government to foster stability and growth.

Signs of Economic Progress in Durban

Ramaphosa highlighted several positive indicators of Durban’s improvement:

• R124.5 billion in investment commitments secured at the recent KwaZulu-Natal Investment Conference
• Increase in tourism
• Improving employment figures

He underscored the recent recognition of the Port of Durban as the most improved container port in the world and pointed to ongoing enhancements in freight rail and port operations. These achievements, he said, all point to a city “regaining its momentum.”

Addressing Ongoing Issues

Despite marks of progress, significant obstacles remain. The president acknowledged persistent service delivery concerns, particularly regarding water supply, and substantial infrastructure backlogs. These issues continue to pose challenges for attracting further investment and delivering quality services to residents.

Call for National Unity as Elections Approach

With South Africans due to vote on 4 November, Ramaphosa urged citizens to prioritise unity and resist efforts to sow division. He advocated for continued progress and a collective commitment to recovery and shared prosperity for all residents of eThekwini.

“Let it be a vote for progress. Let it be a vote for recovery. Let it be a vote for shared prosperity for the people of eThekwini,” he said.

Public officials and community leaders regularly warn against allowing political or social concernssuch as those about migrationto serve as pretexts for lawlessness or the targeting of vulnerable groups or businesses.

Broader Context: The Nexus of Public Sentiment and Social Stability

Anti-illegal immigration protests often prompt concerns about security and economic disruption. Government and business communities typically respond with calls for calm, unity, and adherence to the rule of law to avoid exacerbating social divisions or inviting further violence.

The current atmosphere in Durban and KwaZulu-Natal is shaped by recent history, ongoing recovery efforts, and shared hopes for a peaceful and prosperous future. As elections approach, observers stress the importance of constructive civic engagement and collective resilience in the face of ongoing challenges.