March and March is a prominent citizen-led anti-illegal immigration movement in South Africa. Established as a grassroots group in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, the group has expanded its operations nationwide, calling for stricter border control, the mass deportation of undocumented foreign nationals, and economic opportunities reserved for South African citizens.
Core Agenda and Campaigns
- The 30 June Deadline: The movement has thrust June 30 into the national spotlight as an ultimatum for all undocumented migrants to leave the country.
- Media Briefings: The leadership held a major media briefing detailing their demands for immigration policy overhaul, including tighter visa controls and a halt to refugee processing.
- National Action: Demonstrations and mobilisations have been organised across key cities, including Johannesburg, Pretoria, Cape Town, and Mbombela.
- Gatekeeping Activities: The group initially gained major traction by stationing volunteers outside public healthcare facilities and primary schools in KwaZulu-Natal to check identification before granting entry.
Leadership and Political Alignment
The non-profit organisation is officially led by its founder,
Jacinta Ngobese-Zuma. While the movement maintains that it is an independent, citizen-funded group, it has received strong political backing from the uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party, which frequently aligns with its demonstrations.
Controversies and Backlash
The group faces significant public and state scrutiny:
- Xenophobia Accusations: Critics, including human rights watchdogs and sociologists, argue that the group's rhetoric is violent, exclusionary, and stokes xenophobic sentiments.
- Government Warnings: In response to the June 30 national shutdown plans, the government redirected R600 million toward security operations. State authorities have strongly warned that vigilante-style enforcement, threats, or carrying traditional weapons during protests will face zero tolerance.
- Funding Questions: Despite leadership claims that it operates solely on domestic public donations, media reports and civil groups have continuously raised questions regarding the origin of its funding.
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The above is an AI summary but it does get the gist of the movement. But to be clear they don't like any foreigners, legal or illegal. They just say "anti-illegal migration" so as not to be nailed by human right advocacy groups.
There have already been quite a few foreigners who have opted to leave before the 30 June deadline.
Is just funny to see africans complain about african migrants, in Africa. But it is to be expected, the tribal-level hatred they have for each other is intense.