A government delegation led by Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development Mmamoloko Kubayi has met with the Prime Minister of the Zulu Kingdom, Inkosi Thulasizwe Buthelezi, and members of the Royal House to discuss planned protests against illegal immigration at the end of the month.
The engagement focused on the planned 30 June demonstrations and sought the support of traditional leadership in encouraging communities to address concerns about illegal immigration through lawful and peaceful means.
“The engagement was constructive and successful. The Royal House reaffirmed its commitment to peace, stability and the rule of law, and undertook to encourage its followers to ensure that any demonstrations remain peaceful and within the confines of the law.
“The Royal House also committed to discouraging acts of violence, intimidation and criminality, while supporting efforts to preserve social cohesion and public order,” the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) said on Monday.
Government welcomed the outcome of the meeting and expressed appreciation for the Zulu Kingdom’s willingness to work with all stakeholders to promote peace, protect lives and property, and ensure constitutional rights are exercised responsibly.
Government also requested the Zulu Kingdom to lend its voice in condemning violence, intimidation and any attacks directed at foreign nationals.
Following the engagement, the delegation proceeded to one of the repatriation centres in Durban, where hundreds of Malawian nationals had gathered to be processed ahead of their return to Malawi.
The site visit sought to assess whether the repatriation process was being conducted in an orderly, efficient, safe and humane manner, while ensuring that all legal and administrative procedures were being followed.
The visit also provided the delegation with an opportunity to engage officials on the ground and monitor the progress of the operation.
The Justice, Crime Prevention and Security (JCPS) Cluster again reaffirmed its state of readiness to safeguard the safety and security of all people in South Africa.
According to government, comprehensive operational plans are in place, and law enforcement agencies remain fully prepared to maintain public order, protect lives and property, and uphold the rule of law.
“The JCPS cluster therefore urges and reminds citizens that all gatherings must be exercised responsibly and without violence, intimidation, incitement, damage to property or disruption of essential services.
“Government urges all communities to reject misinformation, refrain from taking the law into their own hands, and allow law enforcement agencies to carry out their constitutional mandate.” -SAnews.gov.za
