The South African government has firmly declared that June 30 is a normal day, dismissing claims of a nationwide shutdown or escalation of xenophobic attacks against foreign nationals. Minister of Justice Mmamoloko Kubayi made the statement during a press conference on Friday, emphasizing the state’s responsibility to protect all individuals, regardless of nationality, from abuse or intimidation. She stressed that the government does not recognize any citizen-led deadline for foreigners to leave the country, urging everyone to continue with daily activities without fear.
Ms Kubayi said, “Enforcement of the law is the responsibility of the state. We are ready as a state to protect foreign nationals and citizens against any form of abuse and intimidation. This indicates that 30th of June is a normal day. It’s not shutdown or blow away.” Her remarks came amid rising tensions fueled by groups such as March and March and Operation Dudula, which had set June 30 as a deadline for foreign nationals to vacate South Africa or face consequences.
The minister reiterated that employees must report to work, businesses should remain open, and transportation services must continue operating as usual. She warned that anyone avoiding work or halting business operations due to fear would not receive payment, stressing that all citizens and foreign nationals have the constitutional right to carry out their lawful activities. She also cautioned against unauthorized individuals demanding proof of nationality, stating that blocking access to clinics, schools, or public institutions is illegal and will be prosecuted.
Kubayi reaffirmed the government’s zero-tolerance policy toward violence, racism, and xenophobia. She said, “Violence and intimidation against foreign citizens in this country is against the law and will be prosecuted in accordance with relevant legal provisions.” She added that advocates or perpetrators of hate speech, Afrophobia, tribalism, sexism, or any form of intolerance have no place in a nation built on the principles of Ubuntu and constitutional democracy.
The government’s strong stance follows a surge in xenophobic attacks targeting foreign nationals and their businesses across South Africa. In response, several African countries, including Nigeria, Ghana, Malawi, Mozambique, and Zimbabwe, have initiated evacuations of their citizens. On Wednesday alone, 66 Nigerians were repatriated from South Africa, bringing the total number of evacuated citizens to 326.
As the situation remains tense, the South African government continues to assert its commitment to upholding the rule of law and protecting the rights of all residents. The message is clear: June 30 will be a day of normalcy, and any disruption will be met with legal consequences.
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