"The right to protest is enshrined in our Constitution," Ramaphosa said, while emphasizing that peaceful demonstrations are a cornerstone of the country's democracy.

The President, however, warned that the constitutional right to protest does not permit violence, intimidation, vandalism or taking the law into one's own hands. His remarks followed nationwide protests over illegal immigration, some of which escalated into unrest, prompting the deployment of security forces to maintain public order.

Ramaphosa urged South Africans to channel their grievances through lawful and democratic processes as authorities continue to address immigration-related concerns.