Minister in the Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, has emphasised that all foreign actors operating in South Africa, including intelligence operatives, must strictly adhere to the country’s laws and respect its sovereignty.
Ntshavheni made these remarks in a written parliamentary reply addressing the presence and activities of foreign intelligence agencies within the Republic. She highlighted that South Africa’s intelligence community continuously monitors global and regional developments, particularly the impact of great power competition on African economies and political stability.
“It is standard practice for sovereign nations, including South Africa, to monitor the activities of foreign intelligence services within their borders,” Ntshavheni stated.
The Minister stressed that counter-intelligence mechanisms are tasked with identifying and managing activities that may threaten South Africa’s national interests, ensuring that any foreign presence operates strictly within legal boundaries.
Ntshavheni’s statements reaffirm the government’s position that all foreign actors must respect South Africa’s laws and sovereignty, reinforcing the country’s commitment to protecting its national security.