Ramaphosa addresses illegal immigration, failing municipalities, and economic empowerment on Freedom Day
via The Citizen2 min read
President Cyril Ramaphosa delivered a Freedom Day speech in Mangaung, Free State, addressing several key issues. He condemned recent xenophobic incidents, emphasizing that concerns about illegal migration should not lead to prejudice against other Africans. Ramaphosa stated that the government is actively combating illegal immigration and corruption within the immigration system, while expecting guests in South Africa to respect its laws. He also acknowledged that freedom is diminished by poor service delivery and failing municipalities, committing to strengthening local government to improve efficiency and responsiveness. Furthermore, Ramaphosa defended broad-based black economic empowerment policies as essential for redressing historical economic injustices and promoting inclusive growth, job creation, and poverty reduction. He concluded by paying tribute to the late Mosiuoa Lekota, former premier of the Free State and a liberation struggle stalwart.
Free daily or weekly digest of the most important stories from across 18 African countries. No spam, unsubscribe any time.
This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by The Citizen.
The Border Management Authority BMA has processed the repatriation of 72,906 foreign nationals at all South African ports of entry between June 7 and July 14, 2026. This information was confirmed by the Inter-Ministerial Committee IMC on Migration, which provided an update on the government's approach to migration management. Since June 14, 2026, 68,138 foreign nationals have been processed, with the majority repatriated after processing at the Musina Temporary Repatriation Processing Centre TRPC. Malawian nationals constituted the largest group processed at the TRPC, followed by Zimbabwean and Mozambican nationals. The country's dedicated immigration courts have finalized 28,736 immigration-related cases, mainly for deportations, from April 1 to the end of June 2026. Of these, 46% were in Gauteng. The IMC issued a warning to foreign nationals who resist lawful operations by law enforcement authorities. The government has also intensified operations against illegal border crossings, human trafficking, labor exploitation, fraudulent documentation syndicates, illegal mining, and criminal enterprises, leading to increased arrests and processing of undocumented persons. To date, 354 cases of arrests and prosecutions have been registered against foreigners for contravening the Migration Act. The BMA continues to enhance border control measures and coordination with security agencies, with 93 joint border operations conducted since April to combat illegal movement of goods, human t
Four academics and activists have launched Vuka Azania, a new advocacy group calling for a discussion on changing South Africa's name. The group proposes "Azania" as an alternative, reviving a name associated with liberation movements during apartheid. Reverend Dr Allan Boesak, senior counsel Dr Muzi Sikhakhane, Professor Isaac Shai, and Arthur Fraser launched the movement in Sandton. Sikhakhane clarified that Vuka Azania is not a political party. Boesak argued that the country's colonial history has led to a "spiritual degradation of the African people" and that the colonial name "South Africa" cannot encompass the memory, pain, struggle, and destiny of indigenous people. He stated that a liberated people must name themselves to restore dignity and that Vuka Azania will advocate for a decolonized post-colonial constitution. Sikhakhane emphasized the need for a "grand discussion" on the country's future, aiming for a black people's convention to discuss their condition and destiny.
Western Cape police have arrested a suspect in connection with the murder of Democratic Alliance DA councillor Sinovuyo Dyokwe. Dyokwe was shot dead near Dunoon on June 20 after campaigning for voter registration. The Serious Violent Crime Investigation unit and Special Task Force made the arrest on Saturday in Parklands. The South African Police Service Saps stated that Dyokwe was followed out of Dunoon by two armed suspects, with the arrested individual allegedly orchestrating the attack. Investigations revealed Dyokwe was being extorted for protection money and was targeted after refusing to comply. Police seized the vehicle allegedly used in the crime and seven cellular phones. The 37-year-old suspect is expected to appear in the Cape Town Magistrate鈥檚 Court on Monday to face charges of murder and extortion. Saps indicated that further arrests are anticipated as the investigation continues. In a separate incident, a 38-year-old foreign national was arrested in the Free State for the fatal stabbing of a woman at a tavern near Stilte Park. The suspect is expected in the Virginia Magistrate鈥檚 Court on Monday, facing charges of murder, contravention of the Immigration Act, and possession of a dangerous weapon.