The advocacy group March and March has pledged to continue its campaign to ensure that South Africa’s resources are reserved for its citizens, accusing the government of failing to address the issue of illegal immigration.
The group’s founder, Jacinta Ngobese-Zuma, claims that their repeated appeals to government officials have gone unanswered. “We have written letters demanding that resources be used strictly for South Africans, but we have been ignored,” she said in a televised interview.
Enforcing the Law or Blocking Access?
The group has recently drawn controversy for its protests outside healthcare facilities in Durban and Rosettenville, where members reportedly prevented foreign nationals—particularly undocumented migrants—from accessing medical services.
When questioned about these actions, Ngobese-Zuma argued that the demonstrations were about enforcing immigration laws rather than denying healthcare. “We are not stopping people from entering facilities; we are saying they should not be in the country illegally in the first place,” she stated.
She emphasized that the government’s failure to secure borders and deport undocumented migrants has forced citizens to take action. “If the government won’t protect South Africa’s resources, then its people must.”
Clash Over Constitutional Rights
The South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) has since intervened, citing Section 27 of the Constitution, which guarantees healthcare access to “everyone” in the country, including undocumented migrants.
Ngobese-Zuma dismissed this interpretation, arguing that the Constitution was designed for citizens, not individuals who entered the country unlawfully. “No constitution in the world is written for foreigners,” she said. “How can the same document say illegal immigrants must be deported but also grant them rights?”
Public Reaction and Government Response
The debate has sparked mixed reactions. A caller from Alberton, identified as Kgaogelo, supported March and March’s stance, blaming the government for failing to enforce immigration laws. However, others expressed concern over reports of pregnant women being turned away from clinics.
The Department of Health is expected to issue an official response following the allegations.
What’s Next?
March and March shows no signs of halting its campaign, framing its efforts as a patriotic duty. With tensions rising over resource allocation and immigration enforcement, the group’s actions are likely to fuel further national debate.
As Ngobese-Zuma put it: “South Africans have the right to protect what is rightfully theirs.”