The South African Human Rights Commission has urged calm, restraint and strict adherence to the rule of law as protests linked to concerns over illegal migration continue across South Africa, with further marches planned for Tuesday.
The Commission reaffirmed that the right to protest remains constitutionally protected, but warned that it must be exercised responsibly and within legal limits.
“The Commission acknowledges that the right to protest is a fundamental right guaranteed in terms of the South African Constitution,” the Commission said.
“When exercised lawfully, the right to protest gives people a voice, strengthens participatory democracy, promotes accountability, and advances human rights.”
However, the Commission stressed that demonstrations must remain peaceful and must not infringe on the rights of others or descend into violence or disorder.
“The Commission therefore makes a call to everyone to ensure that all protests remain peaceful, and any demonstrations are conducted lawfully, in a manner that does not incite violence or intimidation, hate speech or damage to property,” it said.
The SAHRC further noted that government has declared June 30 2026 a normal working day, meaning employees are expected to report for duty and essential services, including transport operators, must continue to operate.
“Government has declared 30 June 2026 a normal working day, therefore many workers will be expected to report for duty as usual in line with their employment obligations,” the Commission said, adding that “those in the transportation industry will be expected to ferry workers to and from work.”
The Commission cautioned that the right to protest does not override other constitutional rights, including the right of commuters to travel safely to work.
“As a result, the Commission would like to remind protestors that the right to protest does not supersede other rights, it must be exercised while respecting the rights of those that will be commuting to and from work on the day,” it said.
The SAHRC also highlighted its ongoing engagements with stakeholders throughout June, including civil society, government and United Nations bodies, aimed at promoting peaceful and rights-based participation in the planned marches.
It further called on law enforcement agencies to act with restraint while maintaining public order and ensuring safety during demonstrations.
“Beyond the march: The Commission calls on Government, together with the private sector and other role players, to urgently address unemployment, socio-economic rights, porous borders, and crime.”
It added that the aim must be to ensure that citizens not only speak about their rights, but are able to meaningfully enjoy them in practice.
The Commission concluded by reaffirming its mandate to promote and protect human rights and called for all parties to prioritise peace as the marches proceed.
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