The IFP said nationwide marches were largely peaceful, warning that isolated violence should not overshadow public participation, while urging stronger law enforcement action and regional cooperation on illegal immigration.
Image: DOCTOR NGCOBO
The Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) has warned that isolated incidents of violence and criminality during nationwide marches against illegal immigration must not overshadow what it says was largely peaceful public participation across South Africa.
The party said the majority of South Africans who took part in the demonstrations did so responsibly and within the confines of the law, despite reports of unrest in some areas.
IFP national spokesperson Mkhuleko Hlengwa said the party “commends the overwhelming majority of South Africans who participated peacefully in marches against illegal immigration across the country.”
He noted that while isolated incidents of lawlessness were reported, including tensions in Germiston and acts of looting in certain areas, these did not define the overall character of the nationwide demonstrations.
Hlengwa said the South African Police Service (SAPS) acted decisively to contain unrest and make arrests where necessary, adding that the party commended law enforcement for its response.
He warned that South Africa “cannot afford a repeat of the devastating July 2021 civil unrest,” stressing the importance of protecting lives, property and public order.
The IFP also called on organisers of the marches to be recognised for consistently urging peaceful conduct, with Hlengwa stating, “The IFP further applauds the organisers of the marches for consistently calling on participants to remain peaceful and law-abiding.”
The party said law enforcement agencies must remain vigilant to prevent criminal elements from hijacking legitimate public demonstrations, adding that violence and intimidation weaken the credibility of genuine public concerns.
Hlengwa said the legitimate concerns of South Africans regarding illegal immigration should not be undermined by unlawful conduct, and called for cooperation between African governments and South Africa to expedite verification and repatriation processes for foreign nationals in the country illegally.
He said this must be done lawfully and in line with international obligations.
The party further reiterated its call for strengthened border security, effective law enforcement, and consistent application of immigration laws.
Meanwhile, the African National Congress (ANC) in KwaZulu-Natal has commended what it described as the discipline and maturity of participants during the marches, particularly in eThekwini.
ANC Provincial Spokesperson Sifiso Sonjica said the province had demonstrated “general discipline, tolerance, and maturity,” adding that South Africans had shown they can express disagreements without resorting to violence.
Sonjica said: “Today, South Africa’s democracy earned yet another feather in its cap as our patriots proved beyond any doubt that they can disagree and voice their concerns without resorting to violence.”
He credited coordinated efforts between different spheres of government, law enforcement agencies, and community structures for helping to maintain public safety during the demonstrations.
The ANC also acknowledged the leadership of President Cyril Ramaphosa and King Misuzulu kaZwelithini, saying their guidance helped reinforce constitutional order and stability.
However, Sonjica raised concern over incidents of looting and intimidation reported in Pietermaritzburg, Clermont, New Germany and eMpumalanga township, allegedly linked to groups that participated in the marches.
“We also note with concern the acts of looting and intimidation. We condemn these actions with the contempt they deserve,” he said.
Sonjica further stated that organisers of public protests bear responsibility for what occurs before, during and after demonstrations, and urged law enforcement agencies to continue acting decisively against criminality.
The ANC said it supports continued efforts through the Inter-Ministerial Committee (IMC) on migration to address structural challenges related to immigration management, and called for greater coordination between national and local government responses.
“We expect the organisers to take accountability for the reported actions. In light of these developments, we again urge the law enforcement agencies to continue with their earlier stellar performance and train their attention on containing and preventing future acts of looting and violence.
“It is crucial for all our people and social groups to unite now to protect our democracy and South Africa’s global reputation.”
IOL Politics