Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development Mmamoloko Kubayi and Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation Thandi Moraka met with Zulu Kingdom Prime Minister Inkosi Thulasizwe Buthelezi on Sunday, June 21, 2026, to secure traditional leadership support against potential violence ahead of the planned June 30 shutdown. The government delegation, including senior police and home affairs officials, urged the Royal House to promote peaceful conduct and discourage hostility toward foreign nationals during the demonstrations.
Government engagement with the Zulu Royal House
The meeting in Durban involved high-level government representatives, including Acting National Commissioner of the South African Police Service Lieutenant General Puleng Dimpane and NATJOINTS Chairperson Lieutenant General Tebello Mosikili. According to the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS), the delegation sought to ensure that concerns regarding illegal immigration are addressed through legal, peaceful channels. The Royal House committed to encouraging its followers to remain within the confines of the law and to reject acts of intimidation or criminality.
The government delegation combined justice and international relations officials with security leadership, including Home Affairs Director-General Livhuwani Tommy Makhode, to address the intersection of immigration policy and public order.
Security preparations and repatriation
Following the discussions, the delegation visited a Durban-based repatriation centre to inspect the processing of hundreds of Malawian nationals. The GCIS stated the visit aimed to confirm that repatriation procedures were conducted in a safe, efficient, and humane manner. Meanwhile, the Justice, Crime Prevention and Security (JCPS) Cluster confirmed that operational plans are in place for the June 30 shutdown to protect lives and property. The cluster warned the public against the disruption of essential services and the spread of misinformation.
The involvement of traditional leadership in managing public demonstrations suggests a strategic attempt by the state to leverage local influence to maintain stability. By securing a commitment from the Royal House, the government aims to create a buffer against potential unrest, though the effectiveness of this approach will depend on the ability of local leaders to successfully de-escalate tensions on the ground.
What might happen next?
Authorities could see a shift in the tone of the June 30 demonstrations if the Royal House’s commitment to peace is effectively communicated to followers. If the warnings issued by the JCPS Cluster are heeded, the event may proceed without the violence or intimidation that officials are actively trying to prevent. However, should misinformation circulate or tensions over illegal immigration escalate, law enforcement may be required to execute the operational plans already prepared by the JCPS Cluster to maintain public order.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did the government meet with the Zulu Royal House?
The government sought the cooperation of traditional leadership to ensure that planned demonstrations on June 30 remain peaceful and to discourage violence or intimidation against foreign nationals.
What was the purpose of the delegation’s visit to the repatriation centre?
The delegation visited the Durban facility to assess whether the processing of Malawian nationals for return to their home country was being conducted in a safe, orderly, and humane manner.
What is the stance of the JCPS Cluster regarding the June 30 shutdown?
The JCPS Cluster states it is fully prepared with operational plans to maintain public order, protect property, and ensure essential services are not disrupted during the demonstrations.
How do you believe the involvement of traditional leaders influences the outcome of public protests in your community?