Pretoria: Justice and Constitutional Development Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi has emphasized the importance of responsibility during marches and protests in South Africa, urging citizens to refrain from criminal behavior while exercising their constitutional rights. The Minister made these remarks during a media briefing of the Justice, Crime Prevention and Security (JCPS) Cluster.
According to South African Government News Agency, the briefing followed discussions with security cluster ministers, senior national security officials, political parties, and various groups involved in protests against illegal foreign nationals. The Minister highlighted the necessity of keeping marches peaceful, as both the right to march and freedom of speech are constitutionally protected.
Kubayi explained the risks of not notifying law enforcement agencies about planned marches, stressing that organizers must inform the state to ensure safety measures are in place. Without such communication, the state is absolved of responsibility, leaving liability with the organizers. She also underscored the importance of citizen safety during these events, even for those not participating.
Addressing concerns about potential nationwide protests against illegal immigration, Kubayi reiterated the government's position, acknowledging the right to protest while appealing for peaceful demonstrations. She emphasized that South Africa is not xenophobic and highlighted the importance of addressing socio-economic issues and distinguishing between legal and illegal immigrants.
The Minister announced the deployment of Deputy Ministers to increase ground visibility and ensure compliance with laws. These officials are expected to report their findings and actions taken, as citizens demand tangible government responses. Reflecting on the lessons learned from the July 2021 unrest, Kubayi stressed the need to protect properties and lives and ensure accountability for criminal acts during protests.