March and March Movement Distances Itself from Responsibility Ahead of June 30 Anti‑Migrant Protests
The March and March Movement, led by Jacinta Ngobese‑Zuma, has declared that it will not take responsibility for any unrest that may arise during the nationwide protests planned for 30 June, which call for undocumented foreign nationals to leave South Africa.
Ngobese‑Zuma, speaking at a press briefing, emphasised that public order remains the responsibility of the state, not civil society organisations. “We are not the police, we are not the army. If there is unrest, that is for government to manage,” she said.
Protest Planning and Legality
The June 30 protests have been billed as a “national shutdown” by organisers, who insist that undocumented migrants must vacate the country. Critics argue that the call is unconstitutional and risks inciting xenophobic violence.
Ngobese‑Zuma defended the movement’s position, stating that the protests are a legitimate expression of public frustration. “South Africans are tired of being ignored. We are exercising our democratic right to protest,” she said.
However, legal experts have warned that demands for undocumented migrants to leave en masse could amount to incitement and may breach constitutional protections.
Government Responsibility
The movement has faced mounting criticism for its stance, with opponents accusing it of fuelling xenophobia. Ngobese‑Zuma rejected these claims, insisting that the government alone bears responsibility for managing migration and public order.
“The state has failed to enforce its own laws. We are simply highlighting the problem. If there is chaos, that is because government has not done its job,” she said.
Officials have responded cautiously, acknowledging the right to protest but warning that lawlessness will not be tolerated. Acting Police Minister Firoz Cachalia has confirmed that SAPS and the SANDF are on standby to maintain order during the demonstrations.
Funding Allegations
The March and March Movement has also faced questions about its funding. Critics allege that the organisation may be receiving support from undisclosed sources to drive its campaign. Ngobese‑Zuma dismissed the allegations as baseless.
“We are funded by ordinary South Africans who want change. There is no hidden agenda, no foreign backers. This is a grassroots movement,” she said.
Civil Society Response
Human rights organisations have condemned the protests, warning that they could trigger violence against migrants and refugees. Groups such as Kopanang Africa Against Xenophobia (KAAX) and the African Diaspora Forum argue that the rhetoric surrounding the shutdown is dangerous and irresponsible.
“Calls for undocumented migrants to leave are not only unconstitutional, they are inhumane,” one activist said. “We have seen too many instances where such language leads directly to violence.”
Broader Context
South Africa has long struggled with tensions over migration, with periodic outbreaks of xenophobic violence leaving communities divided. Analysts note that economic hardship and unemployment have fuelled resentment, often directed at foreign nationals.
The June 30 protests are the latest flashpoint in this ongoing debate. While organisers insist they are exercising democratic rights, critics warn that the demonstrations could escalate into widespread unrest.
Looking Ahead
As the protest date approaches, authorities face the challenge of balancing the right to protest with the need to protect vulnerable communities. Cachalia has pledged that law enforcement will act decisively against any violence, while civil society groups continue to call for calm.
For Ngobese‑Zuma and the March and March Movement, the protests represent a test of their ability to mobilise support without crossing into incitement. Whether the demonstrations remain peaceful or spiral into chaos will depend largely on how government manages the day.
