“We Are the Only Authority that Has the Power & Ability to Deal With Illegal Migration,” — Ramaphosa

President Cyril Ramaphosa has stressed that immigration enforcement is the responsibility of the South African government, amid protests calling for stronger action against undocumented migration.

Ramaphosa made the remarks while campaigning for the African National Congress in eMagabheni, in eThekwini. Addressing concerns about recent demonstrations, he said the government was the only authority with the power and ability to deal with illegal migration.

His comments underline the government’s position that immigration laws must be enforced by state authorities, rather than by individuals or groups acting on their own. The statement comes as demonstrations and public debate have focused on border controls, enforcement of immigration rules and the removal of people found to be in the country unlawfully.

Immigration has become a prominent issue in South African politics. During protests and campaign events, residents have raised concerns about jobs, pressure on public services, crime and the security of the country’s borders. These concerns have also prompted debate about how the government should respond and whether existing laws are being enforced effectively.

At the same time, discussions about immigration enforcement involve questions about legal process and the treatment of people living in the country. Authorities are responsible for determining a person’s immigration status and taking any action required under the law. Ramaphosa’s remarks place emphasis on keeping those decisions within official systems and preventing people from taking enforcement into their own hands.

The comments do not indicate that the government is dismissing protesters’ concerns. Rather, they assert that the state is responsible for addressing them through its agencies and legal processes. The challenge for the government is to show that it can manage immigration and enforce the law while protecting the rights and safety of everyone involved.

The issue is likely to remain part of political debate as parties engage with communities ahead of local government elections. For the ANC, the pressure is to respond to demands for more effective immigration management while maintaining that enforcement must be carried out by the proper authorities.

Ramaphosa’s statement has renewed attention on border management, immigration procedures and the government’s response to public frustration. How effectively the state meets those responsibilities will shape further debate over both immigration enforcement and the role of community groups.

https://x.com/ewnreporter/status/2115423615789453411

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