President Cyril Ramaphosa has told South Africans to ignore the June 30 deadline set by anti-illegal immigration groups for undocumented foreign nationals to leave the country. Speaking at Youth Day commemorations in Nasrec on Tuesday, he said the ultimatum wasn't necessary because the government is already dealing with immigration challenges.

"The so-called 30th of June, in my view, isn't an event that's even necessary because we are addressing the challenges that our people are facing," Ramaphosa said.

The deadline was set by organisations including the March and March movement, which warned of further action if their demands weren't met. The government has distanced itself from the ultimatum, insisting that immigration enforcement is the state's responsibility.

Ramaphosa urged citizens not to take matters into their own hands. "No South African must take any action against any person from any of our African sister countries. That is the responsibility of government and government officials," he said.

He warned that authorities wouldn't tolerate attempts to create instability under the guise of addressing illegal immigration. "We must not allow South Africans to be duped and to be misled by those who want to foster instability in our country. We won't allow that," Ramaphosa said.

Security forces have been instructed to ensure no disruption to the lives of South Africans. Ramaphosa said some people involved in the marches appeared intent on destabilising the country.

"With regards to a number of those who are making a lot of noise about these marches that are taking place, there does seem to be an intention to destabilise the country. The clear message is that we aren't going to allow that."

Ramaphosa responded to criticism that the government only acted after pressure from anti-illegal immigration groups. He said the government has been working on changing immigration laws and empowering officials to address the issues.

He described migration as an economic challenge, noting that most people entering South Africa are economic migrants or refugees seeking better opportunities. South Africa wants to work with regional and continental partners to address the root causes of migration.

"We want the whole region and the continent to address this issue together with us, so that we address the root cause of why people would leave their own country and come to what they see as an economic oasis," he said.

Ramaphosa rejected claims that South Africans are xenophobic, saying disinformation is tarnishing the country's image. "South Africans aren't xenophobic. South Africans aren't xenophobic and we're addressing their concerns," he said.

He revealed that he recently spoke to Malawi's President, who expressed understanding and pledged cooperation. The Malawian leader said, "We understand the challenge and the problems that you're facing. We're with you, and we're there to support you. We'll work with your government to enable those who want to leave and those who may be undocumented to leave peacefully."

South Africa will send envoys to various African countries to explain the government's position and counter misinformation.