Kwazulu-natal: KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli has commended residents, law enforcement agencies, and community stakeholders for ensuring that province-wide protests against illegal immigration remained largely peaceful and orderly.
According to South African Government News Agency, the Premier addressed the media on Thursday following demonstrations held across the province on 30 June 2026. Ntuli noted that the protests had tested the province's leadership and security structures but ultimately demonstrated the strength of democratic processes. "The province-wide protests and demonstrations vehemently tested our capacity to lead, and we emerged triumphant," he stated.
Ntuli was accompanied by Acting KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Commissioner Major General Phumelele Makoba and the province's newly appointed Director-General, Nokuthula Khanyile. He commended law enforcement agencies for their determination in preventing anarchy and widespread disruption. Communities across KwaZulu-Natal were praised for exercising restraint and responsibility throughout the demonstrations.
While welcoming the largely peaceful nature of the protests, Ntuli condemned incidents where individuals allegedly hijacked the demonstrations for criminal purposes. He highlighted the arrest of 51 individuals for looting and vandalism, emphasizing that lawbreakers do not have a place in KwaZulu-Natal.
The Premier also acknowledged the socio-economic challenges facing the province, particularly unemployment and poverty. He announced plans for a roundtable on local economic development, focusing on the spaza shop sector, aiming to turn frustrations into economic opportunities. Additionally, workplace inspections will be intensified to discourage hiring undocumented foreign nationals.
Ntuli concluded by expressing appreciation to law enforcement and stakeholders for safeguarding residents during the protests. He reaffirmed the government's commitment to maintaining law and order and addressing economic challenges in KwaZulu-Natal.