South Africa’s Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald Lamola, has issued a strong warning against xenophobic violence, vigilantism and the spread of misinformation, insisting that concerns over immigration must be addressed through lawful processes rather than public intimidation or violence.
Speaking at the Commonwealth Africa Speakers’ Conference on 16 June 2026, Lamola delivered remarks on behalf of President Cyril Ramaphosa and Deputy President Paul Mashatile. His address coincided with several significant milestones, including the 30th anniversary of South Africa’s Constitution, the 50th anniversary of the 1976 Soweto Uprising and the upcoming World Refugee Day.
The minister used the platform to reaffirm South Africa’s constitutional commitment to human dignity, equality and the rule of law while acknowledging growing public concerns surrounding migration and border management.
Government distances itself from anti-immigration campaigns
Lamola said South Africa was witnessing increasing anti-immigrant sentiment at a time when migration continues to shape the African continent.
According to international estimates, more than 45 million Africans currently live outside their countries of birth, making migration a central social and economic issue across the region.
While recognising frustrations surrounding undocumented migration, Lamola stressed that the enforcement of immigration laws remains the exclusive responsibility of the state.
He specifically rejected calls by anti-illegal immigration groups planning protests and a national shutdown aimed at forcing undocumented migrants to leave South Africa by the end of June.
“These groups do not represent the position of the South African government,” Lamola said.
He warned that no individual or organisation has the legal authority to demand identification documents, remove people from public spaces or force migrants from their homes and businesses.
The minister described attacks on foreign nationals, looting of businesses and destruction of property as acts of vigilantism that threaten democratic institutions and damage South Africa’s relationships across Africa and the wider international community.
Minister challenges misinformation surrounding violence claims
A significant portion of Lamola’s address focused on what he described as the growing danger of misinformation.
His comments came shortly after World Health Organization Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus publicly expressed concern over reports of xenophobic violence in South Africa, claiming that several foreign nationals had been killed and thousands displaced.
Without directly naming the WHO chief, Lamola urged the public and international observers to rely on verified information.
“We must separate facts from fake news,” he said.
According to the minister, South African police have confirmed the deaths of two Mozambican nationals in Mossel Bay, a case currently under investigation. However, he said authorities have not verified reports claiming that Nigerian, Ghanaian or Ethiopian nationals were killed during recent anti-immigration protests.
Lamola added that police are investigating whether the deaths of five Ethiopian nationals may have been linked to gang activity or commercial rivalries rather than xenophobic attacks.
The minister also referenced recent warnings issued by the Inter-Ministerial Committee on Migration regarding manipulated videos, edited images and false narratives circulating online.
Officials believe disinformation campaigns are contributing to social tensions and may be used to incite violence or destabilise communities.
Lamola concluded by emphasising that migration has always been part of South Africa’s history. He said the country remains committed to constitutional values, international refugee protections and a Pan-African vision based on human dignity and lawful governance.
Meanwhile, the South African National Taxi Council (Santaco) has warned that any unlawful demonstrations or disruptions to transport services linked to the immigration debate could have severe consequences for commuters, businesses and the broader economy.
Source: Commonwealth Africa Speakers’ Conference, Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO)