South Africa’s Government Engages Zulu Kingdom on Immigration Shutdown DATELINE: Durban, South Africa — 2026-06-22 LEAD In a bid to address the ongoing concerns over illegal immigration, the South African government has engaged the Zulu Kingdom, seeking support from traditional leadership ahead of a planned immigration shutdown set for 30 June 2026.
The meeting, which took place in Durban on 21 June 2026, involved key government officials and the Prime Minister of the Zulu Kingdom, Inkosi Thulasizwe Buthelezi. NUT GRAF: The government’s proactive approach to involve the Zulu Kingdom reflects its commitment to ensuring peaceful demonstrations and addressing the illegal immigration issue through lawful and peaceful means.
The Zulu Royal House’s reaffirmation of its commitment to peace, stability, and the rule of law is seen as a crucial factor in maintaining social cohesion and public order during the shutdown period.
The meeting was attended by Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development Mmamoloko Kubayi, Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation Thandi Moraka, Acting National Commissioner of the South African Police Service Lieutenant General Puleng Dimpane, and Home Affairs Director — General Livhuwani Tommy Makhode.
The delegation aimed to encourage cooperation with traditional leadership and to address concerns related to illegal immigration.
The government’s multi-pronged approach to tackle illegal immigration includes intensified efforts to identify and deport undocumented foreign nationals, enhanced border security, and immigration law reform. President Cyril Ramaphosa has outlined these measures, emphasizing the need for a secure border and the protection of South African jobs and economic interests.
The engagement with the Zulu Kingdom is part of a broader strategy to prevent unrest and ensure that demonstrations linked to illegal immigration remain peaceful.
The Royal House’s role in discouraging acts of violence, intimidation, and criminality is expected to be crucial in maintaining social cohesion and public order.
The government has also been working on repatriation processes for undocumented foreign nationals.
A visit to a repatriation centre in Durban revealed that processes were being conducted in an orderly, efficient, safe, and humane manner, in compliance with legal and administrative procedures.
The South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) has sounded the alarm over anti-migrant violence in KwaZulu-Natal, urging for an immediate end to violence targeting foreign nationals.
The government’s engagement with the Zulu Kingdom is seen as a step towards addressing these concerns and ensuring that the rights of all individuals are protected. KICKER: As the planned immigration shutdown approaches, the government’s engagement with the Zulu Kingdom and other stakeholders is crucial in ensuring a peaceful resolution to the illegal immigration issue.
The commitment of the Zulu Royal House to peace, stability, and the rule of law provides a foundation for addressing the concerns of both South African citizens and foreign nationals in the region.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 5*
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This original article was produced by the ImNews editorial team
Source: Google News v2
