Foundation condemns ‘reckless’ national shutdown calls, warns of xenophobic anarchy

June 12, 2026 · 2 min · Episode 48

About this episode

The Ahmed Kathrada Foundation condemns calls for a national shutdown, warning of potential anarchy and xenophobic violence.

Foundation condemns 'reckless' national shutdown calls, warns of xenophobic anarchy The Ahmed Kathrada Foundation (AKF) has strongly condemned recent calls for a "national shutdown", labelling it "reckless" and warning of the risk of it descending into anarchy and xenophobic violence. Calls for a shutdown follow a June 30 deadline issued by the anti-illegal immigration group March & March, which is demanding that undocumented foreign nationals leave South Africa. The AKF urged government to fast-track its immigration and employment plans to maintain public confidence, and wants the immediate rollout of promised workplace inspectors to crack down on unscrupulous employers, and the execution of labour laws to prevent the exploitation of vulnerable workers. The foundation urged citizens to reject the shutdown and use constructive dialogue to deal with the issue. The foundation noted a "cautious optimism" following President Cyril Ramaphosa's recent address on border security and migration. Major federations such as COSATU, FEDUSA, and SAFTU welcome the enforcement of immigration laws, and organised business, faith-based organisations, and political parties support the…

Topics covered

national shutdown
xenophobia
immigration
public safety
community dialogue

Keywords

national shutdown
xenophobia
immigration
Cyril Ramaphosa
community dialogue

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Ahmed Kathrada Foundation, March & March, COSATU, FEDUSA, SAFTU, South African Police Service, Border Management Authority

Foundation condemns ‘reckless’ national shutdown calls, warns of xenophobic anarchy

About this episode

Topics covered

Keywords

Mentioned in this episode

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