Meeting with Zulu Kingdom Leaders
On Sunday, 21 June 2026, Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development Mmamoloko Kubayi and Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation Thandi Moraka met with Inkosi Thulasizwe Buthelezi, Prime Minister of the Zulu Kingdom, and members of the Royal House in Durban. The talks were facilitated by the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS).
Purpose of the Engagement
The main goal was to gain the support of traditional leaders ahead of the planned 30 June shutdown. The government wanted to:
- Encourage cooperation with traditional authorities.
- Address concerns about illegal immigration through lawful and peaceful means.
- Ask the Royal House to condemn violence, intimidation, and attacks against foreign nationals.
- Promote social cohesion and public order during any demonstrations.
Government Delegation Present
Accompanying the ministers were several senior officials:
- Acting National Commissioner of the South African Police Service, Lieutenant General Puleng Dimpane
- NATJOINTS Chairperson, Lieutenant General Tebello Mosikili
- Home Affairs Director‑General, Livhuwani Tommy Makhode
Their presence highlighted the joint effort of justice, security, and immigration departments.
Visit to a Repatriation Centre
After the meeting, the delegation toured a repatriation centre in Durban where hundreds of Malawian nationals were being processed for return to Malawi. The visit aimed to:
- Observe whether the repatriation process was orderly, efficient, safe, and humane.
- Verify compliance with legal and administrative procedures.
- Show the government’s commitment to handling immigration matters responsibly.
Ensuring Peaceful Demonstrations
The Justice, Crime Prevention and Security (JCPS) Cluster confirmed that operational plans are ready to maintain public order and protect lives and property during the upcoming demonstrations. Authorities urged the public to:
- Act responsibly and avoid violence, intimidation, incitement, property damage, or disruption of essential services.
- Reject misinformation and allow law enforcement to carry out its constitutional duties.
The Royal House reiterated its commitment to peace, stability, and the rule of law, promising to encourage followers to keep any protests peaceful and within legal boundaries.
Conclusion
The engagement between national ministers, traditional leaders, and security officials reflects a collaborative approach to managing immigration concerns and upcoming demonstrations. By seeking the support of the Zulu Kingdom’s leadership and emphasizing lawful, peaceful actions, the government aims to safeguard public safety while upholding the rights and dignity of all individuals involved.
