Written by: Badr Ahmed

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa discussed with the country’s kings and queens ways to manage the migration issue and enhance the role of traditional leaders in supporting the government’s efforts to address migration-related challenges, during a meeting held at the Mahlamba Ndlovu Presidential Residence in Pretoria.

The meeting comes as part of a series of consultations led by the South African government with various social partners and stakeholders, with the aim of building a common vision for dealing with migration issues, in light of growing public concerns about its economic and social effects, and the increasing pace of debate about migration policies in the country.

South Africa involves royal leaders in addressing migration challenges

During the meeting, President Ramaphosa emphasized that royal and traditional leaders play a pivotal role in maintaining societal stability and promoting social cohesion within local communities, stressing the importance of their contribution to raising awareness and supporting government efforts to address migration-related issues within the framework of the law.

Ramaphosa noted that the government is aware of the magnitude of the challenges facing citizens, foremost among them the continued high unemployment rates, the widening scope of poverty, and the economic pressures suffered by many families, stressing that these conditions necessitate working to find balanced solutions that maintain security and stability and respect the rule of law.

The South African president stressed that the responsibility for implementing immigration laws rests solely with state institutions and competent authorities, emphasizing that no individual or group has the right to detain people or demand that they produce identity documents or proof of nationality, because the implementation of immigration laws is carried out within legal frameworks and official institutions.

He added that the government will continue to work on strengthening the enforcement of immigration laws, while ensuring respect for fundamental rights and the rule of law, calling for avoiding any practices that may lead to discrimination or targeting of individuals outside the legal framework.

This meeting comes at a time when South Africa is witnessing a broad debate on immigration policies, amid escalating economic and social pressures, and rising voices demanding stricter border controls and regulation of the presence of immigrants, while emphasizing the need to adhere to national laws and international agreements related to human rights.

Ramaphosa’s meeting with the kings and queens reflects the government’s approach to involving traditional leaders in addressing national issues, considering them an influential partner in promoting social peace, supporting dialogue, and strengthening adherence to the law within local communities.