ANC secretary-general Fikile Mbalula has responded to recent anti-illegal immigration protests by suggesting that public frustration regarding border security should be addressed through voting rather than demonstrations. He emphasized the importance of using the ballot box to express concerns about porous borders.

Cape Town mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis has issued a warning against anti-immigrant violence, emphasizing the need for the police and the broader criminal justice system to enforce the law effectively. His remarks come amid rising tensions related to immigration issues in the city.

Jacinta Ngobese-Zuma, leader of the March and March movement, has stated that the nationwide demonstrations scheduled for June 30 will be peaceful. She has dismissed allegations that the movement is encouraging vigilantism or violence against foreigners.

South Africa is experiencing a significant anti-immigrant movement, highlighted by the March and March initiative advocating for the mass deportation of undocumented migrants by June 30, 2026. This movement has emerged amid rising unemployment, declining public services, and increasing insecurity, leading to heightened anti-immigrant violence and repatriation efforts by other African nations. While the movement's grievances are acknowledged, the underlying causes of the economic crisis are being debated.

As the June 30 anti-immigration protests approach, foreign nationals and community leaders in Cape Town express concerns for their safety, urging for calm amidst rising tensions. Law enforcement agencies are preparing for possible unrest, highlighting the anxiety within the community, according to IOL.

In early May 2026, anti-immigrant protests occurred in major South African cities, raising concerns about rising xenophobia in post-apartheid South Africa. President Cyril Ramaphosa urged citizens to show solidarity with their African neighbors, while foreign governments expressed their discontent. Police were deployed to manage the situation and prevent violence during the demonstrations, which featured participants in traditional Zulu attire, as seen in Johannesburg on April 29, 2026.