The Eastern Cape government has appealed for calm ahead of Tuesday’s planned protest against illegal immigration, urging demonstrators to act within the law and respect the rights of all residents.
Anti-illegal immigration groups have proposed the day as the deadline for undocumented foreign nationals to leave South Africa.
Several African countries have been assisting their citizens who wish to return home, amid growing concerns about their safety in parts of the country.
The Eastern Cape government said that it remains open to engaging with concerns raised by protesters but insists that immigration-related matters must be addressed through lawful processes.
It said that extensive measures have been put in place to maintain public safety across the province.
Premier Oscar Mabuyane has urged residents to remain calm, emphasising that it will be a normal business day.
 “There is no shutdown, and no citizen should be obstructed from conducting their business or going to work.”
Mabuyane also condemned any form of intimidation, harassment or violence against anyone, regardless of their nationality or immigration status.
Ntuthuzelo Nene
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