President Cyril Ramaphosa will address the nation Sunday, June 7, 2026, regarding illegal migration and recent anti-foreigner protests [1].
The speech comes as the South African government faces increasing pressure to curb xenophobic violence and implement stricter border controls. The address is intended to stabilize public sentiment and outline a formal state response to the unrest.
Ramaphosa is scheduled to speak at 18:00 SAST [1] from the Union Buildings in Pretoria [1]. The president intends to detail the government's approach to managing illegal migration and respond to the recent wave of protests targeting foreign nationals [1], [2].
In a statement regarding the announcement, Ramaphosa said, "The government will take decisive steps to manage illegal migration and protect the safety of all South Africans" [3]. The president has previously said, "there is no place for xenophobia in South Africa" [4].
While some reports suggested the event would take place at Cape Town City Hall, official government communications confirm the venue as the Union Buildings in Pretoria [1]. The address follows a period of heightened tension where foreign nationals have been targeted in various regions.
Ramaphosa is expected to balance the necessity of law enforcement with the protection of human rights. The administration has struggled to contain the surge in protests, which often center on economic grievances and competition for resources. By addressing the nation directly, the president aims to signal a shift toward more aggressive management of illegal entry while condemning the violence accompanying these social tensions.
“There is no place for xenophobia in South Africa”
This address represents an attempt by the Ramaphosa administration to reclaim the narrative amidst rising nationalism. By linking the management of illegal migration to the prevention of xenophobia, the government is attempting to address the root cause of the protests—perceived lawlessness at the borders—without endorsing the violent methods used by protesters.
