JOHANNESBURG, GAUTENG — Thousands of demonstrators have taken to the streets across South Africa for a series of coordinated anti-immigration protests, demanding that undocumented migrants leave the country. The nationwide demonstrations, largely spearheaded by the March and March organization, have seen massive crowds gathering in Johannesburg, Durban, and the Eastern Cape. With heightened security deployments and a heavy police presence, authorities and traditional leaders are working to ensure the marches remain peaceful as citizens voice their frustrations over migration issues.
Johannesburg: A Massive Gathering at the MTN Taxi Rank
In the Johannesburg CBD, a massive groundswell of protesters gathered at the MTN taxi rank and moved from Bears Noir Square, making their way toward Constitution Hill. The crowd, comprising members of the March and March organization, the MK party, and various religious organizations, quickly swelled in numbers.
Marchers were heard chanting “Abahambe,” a Zulu term demanding that undocumented individuals return to their countries of origin. Many carried placards with slogans such as “African leaders are our curse.” Despite police warnings against carrying weapons, some marchers were seen bearing sticks. Emergency services and private security personnel remained on standby, supported by the 600 million rand reportedly spent by the state to cover security and medical costs.
While President Cyril Ramaphosa recently introduced a five-point plan to address immigration issues, some marchers noted off the record that they feel the measures are insufficient. The massive wave of people, which drew international media attention, proceeded in high spirits, with organizers expressing optimism that the government is finally taking note of their concerns.
Eastern Cape: Police Deploy Resources Across Hotspot Areas
In the Eastern Cape, crowds converged in KuGompo and Gumbbo City, following a decision by organizers to bring the registered Buffalo City Metro municipality march to these areas. The South African Police Service (SAPS) deployed extensive resources across hotspot areas, including KuGompo City, Nelson Mandela Bay, Komani, and Matatiele.
The Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in the Eastern Cape addressed the media, emphasizing that law enforcement is working closely with other agencies, the business community, and neighborhood watch structures. The Commissioner noted that the police are fully prepared, stating, “We are not going to tolerate we are not going to wait for a second or even a first car to be tossed or a first person to be intimidated or a first road to be blocked.”
Referencing a previous march in April that turned violent, the Commissioner assured the public that the police have learned from the incident and are acting without fear or favor. In the past 24 hours, police arrested between 200 and 300 undocumented immigrants. Repatriations are also underway, with police escorting buses carrying individuals back to Malawi and Zimbabwe. The Provincial Commissioner stressed that immigration officers are working alongside SAPS in joint operational centers, and reiterated that no one is compelled to join the protests, urging all participants to exercise their constitutional right peacefully.
Durban: Zulu Regiments and Community Patrollers Ensure Order
In KwaZulu-Natal, the main protest march in Durban saw the gathering of Amabuto (Zulu regiments) at their assembly point. The regiments, carrying traditional shields, prepared to march down Flea Street and later join the March and March movement along King Dinuzul Road, proceeding down West Street toward the Point area.
Addressing concerns over the traditional weapons, a senior of the Amazulu royal house, clarified that the shields carried by the warriors are symbols of protection and peace, not meant to harm anyone. He stressed that prohibited weapons such as knives, spears, or firearms are not permitted at the march.
King Misuzulu kaZwelithini dispatched the Zulu regiments and their leaders to monitor the marches and ensure law and order. The regimental leaders reiterated their commitment to a peaceful demonstration, confirming there would be no violence, looting, or attacks on either South Africans or foreign nationals.
The presidency also weighed in, with President Cyril Ramaphosa issuing a statement following meetings with political leaders, including those from the MK party. The statement emphasized that while the government acknowledges and respects the right to demonstrate, it remains the sole authority responsible for the enforcement of migration laws.
To maintain order, a massive security footprint was established in Durban. Helicopters hovered overhead to monitor the situation, and over 10,000 community patrollers were deployed across the CBD, townships, and suburbs to work alongside neighborhood watchers. Authorities remain on high alert to prevent any groups from hijacking the marches, ensuring that the demonstrations remain peaceful from start to finish.