President Cyril Ramaphosa speaks on impact of country’s growing violence

President Cyril Ramaphosa addressed the rising incidents of violence in KwaZulu-Natal in a speech on 28 October 2026, amid discussions surrounding his decision to deploy the military to the province following the March and March protest on Tuesday, 27 October 2026.

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“A country cannot thrive in violence”

While addressing the Durban Chamber of Commerce and Industry during the 169th celebration at Suncoast, the President focused on the impact lawlessness and widespread violence have on the economy.

“Economic prosperity depends on social stability,” he stated, highlighting the intersectionality between economics and civil society.

“Businesses cannot flourish where there is violence, where there is intimidation and where there is lawlessness.”

He then referenced the civil unrest and violent protests in KZN in July 2021.

“The event of July 2021 reminded us of the terrible cost of instability. They also reminded us of the importance of protecting the democratic institutions and constitutional values upon which our society rests,” he explained.

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President Ramaphosa condemns violence

Ramaphosa then uses the reference as an opportunity to condemn the rising violence in recent weeks, noting that there is no rhyme or reason behind enacting violence on others.

“In recent weeks, we have once again witnessed disturbing incidents of violence, of intimidation and attacks on businesses. These acts cannot be tolerated. Whatever grievances people may have, there can be no justification for violence,” he declared.

WATCH | President Cyril Ramaphosa says attacks on businesses will not be tolerated. He says concerns over illegal immigration must not be used as a pretext for criminality or to pit communities against one another. He adds that investment cannot thrive where there’s lawlessness. https://t.co/4h5MNSrOBk

— SABC News (@SABCNews) October 28, 2026

President Ramaphosa addresses illegal immigration

The president pointed out one crucial point behind the sensitive topic of illegal immigration. He stated that as much as it may be a matter of concern for many in the country, it cannot be used to shield agendas of criminality.

“We must be equally clear that concerns about illegal immigration cannot be used as a pretext for criminality or for turning communities against one another,” he said.

Driving an important aspect forward that speaks to the values on which the country was built, he added:

“South Africa is a country built upon principles of human dignity, equality and the rule of law. We will uphold these values without fear or favour.”

Featured image: Instagram/@cyrilramaphosa

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