30 JUNE DEADLINE LOOMS, AS ANTI-IMMIGRATION MOVEMENT GROWS BIGGER AND BIGGER!
South Africa’s controversial anti-illegal immigration movement, March and March, has intensified its campaign against undocumented foreign nationals, with fresh marches, growing public support, and increasing pressure on government to act before a self-imposed deadline of 30 June 2026.
The movement, founded in 2025, has rapidly gained traction across the country, organizing mass demonstrations in major cities including Johannesburg, Durban, Pretoria and parts of Ekurhuleni.
Supporters argue that illegal immigration places immense pressure on public services, employment opportunities and law enforcement resources.
This week, hundreds of protesters once again took to the streets in Kwa-Thema, Ekurhuleni, calling on government to tighten border controls and accelerate the deportation of undocumented migrants.
Demonstrators carried South African flags, sang struggle songs and demanded urgent intervention from authorities. The march remained largely peaceful despite heightened tensions surrounding the issue.
March and March has given government and undocumented foreign nationals until 30 June to address what it describes as a national crisis.
The movement leaders have warned that failure to act could result in a nationwide shutdown, although government has cautioned against any unlawful actions.
The growing protests have prompted President Cyril Ramaphosa to address the nation on immigration-related matters.
While acknowledging public concerns about illegal immigration, Ramaphosa strongly condemned vigilantism and warned citizens against taking the law into their own hands.
“We will not allow groups to use legitimate concerns about illegal immigration to incite violence and lawlessness,” the President said during a national address.
The movement’s rise has also sparked heated debate across the political spectrum.
Some political parties have openly supported March and March’s calls for stronger immigration enforcement, while others have accused the organisation of fuelling xenophobia and social division.
Human rights organisations have expressed concern about incidents of violence and intimidation linked to anti-immigration protests.
Several African governments, including Ghana, Mozambique, Malawi and Nigeria, have assisted citizens wishing to return home amid fears generated by the unrest.
Reports indicate that hundreds of foreign nationals have sought refuge or voluntary repatriation in recent weeks.
Meanwhile, government ministers have held high-level meetings with community organisations, political parties and representatives of the March and March movement in an effort to prevent further tensions and find lawful solutions to concerns surrounding illegal immigration.
As the 30 June deadline approaches, all eyes remain on government, law enforcement agencies and protest organisers.
The coming weeks are expected to be critical in determining whether dialogue can prevail or whether tensions around immigration will continue to escalate.
While opinions remain deeply divided, the issue has once again placed immigration, border security, unemployment and service delivery at the centre of South Africa’s national conversation.
March and March leader Jacinta Ngobese-Zuma has urged supporters participating in the planned 30 June march to remain peaceful and avoid looting, vandalism or violence, saying the action is intended to pressure the government to address concerns over undocumented foreign nationals, crime and drugs.
