Govt warns of action against online incitement

South Africa's government has issued a stern warning that individuals spreading incitement, hostility, or criminal conduct through social media platforms will face repercussions. The Inter-Ministerial Committee on Migration expressed concern over the proliferation of inflammatory and misleading content online, which could incite violence against foreign nationals, public officials, and state institutions.

IMC chairperson Mmamoloko Kubayi emphasized that while freedom of expression is protected by the Constitution, incitement to violence, intimidation, hate speech, and criminal behavior is not.

Law enforcement authorities are closely monitoring the situation and will take action against those attempting to incite, organize, facilitate, or commit acts of violence and public disorder, both online and offline. Kubayi stressed that anyone using digital platforms to incite criminal conduct should understand that such actions may be considered criminal offenses and will be addressed accordingly by the law.

The warning comes as South Africans grapple with the implications of the Constitutional Court's July 7 ruling on the Refugees Act. The court declared sections of the Act unconstitutional, affecting the deportation process for asylum seekers without transit visas. The IMC acknowledged that the ongoing legal proceedings have created uncertainty and heightened tensions in certain communities.

The committee urged the public, civil society organizations, community groups, and political stakeholders to maintain restraint as the legal processes unfold.

The IMC reiterated that South Africans have a constitutional right to peaceful assembly, demonstration, and expressing grievances. However, they stressed that this right does not permit intimidation, looting, malicious damage to property, public violence, or obstructing lawful activities. The committee also highlighted its ongoing engagement with representatives of various civil society organizations, including Operation Dudula, March and March, the United Civic Movement, the South African Council of Churches, South Africa First, and the Alexander Fiela Movement.

These representatives shared their concerns, feedback from stakeholders, and suggestions on how the government should address migration-related issues. The committee expressed appreciation for the feedback received and stated that they are committed to working alongside South Africans to address the challenges arising from the Constitutional Court's decision.