SACBC urges calm ahead of June 30 anti-immigration deadline, warning against violence, misinformation, and xenophobic tensions in South Africa.
Newsroom (25/06/2026 Gaudium Press ) As South Africa approaches June 30, a date promoted by anti-illegal immigration groups as a deadline for undocumented foreign nationals to leave the country, religious leaders are urging restraint amid escalating tensions.
Bishop Thulani Victor Mbuyisa, Chairperson of the Justice and Peace Commission of the Southern African Catholic Bishops’ Conference (SACBC), issued a strong appeal for calm on June 24. In his statement, he called on citizens to reject violence and uphold the rule of law in the face of growing anti-migrant protests.
“As the 30 June 2026 deadline for all undocumented foreigners to leave South Africa approaches, we appeal for calm and urge all those involved in anti-migration protests to refrain from violence against foreign nationals,” he said.
The Bishop’s message comes against the backdrop of mounting unrest in several parts of the country, including KwaZulu-Natal, Gauteng, the Eastern Cape, and the Western Cape, where demonstrations and vigilante actions have reportedly displaced thousands.
Warnings Against Misinformation and Vigilantism
Bishop Mbuyisa emphasized the role of misinformation in inflaming tensions, cautioning the public against spreading unverified content.
“We also call on the public to refrain from spreading misinformation, inflammatory rhetoric, and unverified videos that may further fuel fear, panic, and social tension,” he said.
Claims that all undocumented migrants must leave South Africa by June 30 circulated widely on social media as early as May 9, often presented as official government directives. Authorities have since declared these notices fake, underscoring the disconnect between activist messaging and official policy.
Police reinforced this stance on May 14, warning that no individual or group holds the authority to expel foreigners from the country. Despite this, some activist groups have continued to promote the deadline, maintaining pressure through marches and public demonstrations.
Government Rejects Deadline, Steps Up Security
President Cyril Ramaphosa has repeatedly distanced the government from the June 30 deadline, stressing that immigration enforcement remains the responsibility of the state. Reports throughout June confirm that the deadline was set by anti-migrant groups, not government authorities.
Nonetheless, authorities are preparing for potential unrest. Acting Minister of Police Firoz Cachalia announced that the South African Police Service (SAPS) will deploy extensive resources to maintain order, with operations expected to exceed R600 million (approximately US$33.3 million).
Speaking at a media briefing, Cachalia affirmed that law enforcement agencies are ready to safeguard communities and critical infrastructure, reflecting the seriousness of the situation.
Balancing Economic Concerns and Human Dignity
In his statement, Bishop Mbuyisa acknowledged the underlying frustrations driving anti-immigration sentiment, including unemployment, crime, and economic hardship. However, he firmly rejected the use of these challenges as justification for targeting foreign nationals.
“The economic hardships faced by many in our country are indeed serious and deserve a responsible and comprehensive response. However, lasting solutions will never be found in violence, scapegoating, or threats,” he said.
His remarks highlight the delicate balance between addressing legitimate socio-economic concerns and preventing xenophobic violence—a recurring issue in South Africa’s recent history.
Faith-Based Appeal for Compassion and Rule of Law
Drawing on Christian teaching, Bishop Mbuyisa urged believers not to lose sight of moral obligations toward migrants and refugees.
“As Christians, we cannot ignore the clear command of Sacred Scripture to love the stranger and uphold the dignity of every human person,” he said, citing Leviticus 19:34: “The foreigner residing among you must be treated as your native-born.”
He further emphasized that welcoming the stranger and protecting the vulnerable are not only religious imperatives but also align with the core values of South Africa’s constitutional democracy.
While acknowledging the constitutional right to protest, the Bishop stressed that such actions must remain lawful and nonviolent. “Our constitution acknowledges the right to protest, but calls for the exercise of this right within the provisions of the law and without causing undue harm to others,” he noted.
Call for Unity and Social Responsibility
As the controversial date approaches, the SACBC’s Justice and Peace Commission is urging a collective commitment to peace and social cohesion.
“We therefore call on all South Africans to uphold the rule of law, resist the politics of scapegoating, and work together to build a society rooted in justice, compassion, fraternity, and peace,” Bishop Mbuyisa said.
With tensions high and conflicting narratives circulating, the coming days are expected to test the country’s institutions and social fabric. The appeal from religious leaders underscores the urgent need for calm, dialogue, and adherence to lawful processes in addressing one of South Africa’s most pressing challenges.
- Raju Hasmukh with files from ACI Africa
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