South Africa braces for national protests amid government assurances and private sector precautions

President Cyril Ramaphosa stated that intimidation and vandalism in anti-illegal migrant protests will not be tolerated. Despite the government declaring today a normal working day, with public services, schools, and businesses expected to operate as usual, many private companies have taken precautions. Retailers like Checkers Sixty60 announced potential service disruptions in certain areas.

Carmien Kruger from Pretoria, who works at a cellphone shop owned by a foreign national in Johannesburg, reported that their shop would not be open, and many other foreigner-owned shops in the area have also closed since the weekend due to fear of attacks. Over the weekend, spontaneous marches occurred in Soweto, Midrand, and Pretoria West. The Joburg Metropolitan Police Department JMPD monitored the situation, but Kopanang Africa Against Xenophobia accused JMPD of preferential treatment, claiming their right to protest was previously limited due to violence concerns, a consideration not applied to today's marches.

The Psychological Society of SA warned that the protests could negatively affect migrants, stating that fear, misinformation, and scapegoating intensify prejudice and increase the risk of violence. President Ramaphosa acknowledged concerns about illegal immigration and border management, stating that the gov