Following a compelling address to the nation last night by March and March leader Jacinta Ngobese-Zuma, the movement has articulated a series of sharp criticisms regarding the current state of South Africa.
The group, which traces its origins to protests that began in March 2025, asserts that its movement has gained national significance, fueling a critical debate regarding democracy, national sovereignty, and the socioeconomic conditions of ordinary citizens.
Reflections on three decades of democracy
Reflecting on the thirty years since the adoption of the South African Constitution, the movement questions the actual extent of freedom and democracy for the populace. They argue that the aspirations of ordinary South Africans remain largely unfulfilled, specifically citing the failures to reclaim land, a lack of ownership over the means of production, and an economy they describe as crumbling.
The movement contends that the promise of a better life for all remains a pipe dream that has yet to be realised for the majority of the population.
Stance on immigration and national sovereignty
Central to the grievances of the March and March Movement is the issue of migration. The group characterises the current situation as an “invasion” and alleges that the government has prioritised the needs of foreign nationals over those of South Africans.
They claim that public infrastructure, including health, education, and social development services, is under immense strain due to the presence of immigrants. Furthermore, they assert that foreign nationals are hijacking the township economy and have engaged in criminal activities, including drug trafficking, without sufficient government intervention.
Addressing accusations and seeking redress
In their messaging, the group vehemently rejects accusations that they are a xenophobic or vigilante organisation, labeling such characterisations as misrepresentations by the media nd government officials. They contend that they are a patriotic movement giving a voice to the voiceless, including the unemployed, the victims of crime, and those suffering from poverty.
They have specifically warned that they are initiating legal action against certain media houses for what they describe as blatantly misleading the public and damaging the reputation of their organisation.
A list of demands to the State
To address what they term an urgent national crisis, the movement has issued a series of sweeping demands to the government. These include an immediate 14-day moratorium on the processing of all refugee applications and the “massive deportation” of all illegal foreigners currently in the country.
They are further demanding that the government declare illegal immigration a national disaster, secure borders with new fencing, and expand the mandate of the Border Management Authority to operate inland. Additionally, the group advocates for new legislation to reserve the township economy exclusively for South African small businesses.
The path forward and impending protests
The March and March Movement has set a formal deadline for the President to address these specific issues by 30 June 2026. They have made it clear that if their demands remain unaddressed by that date, the public should expect further demonstrations on the streets.
The movement concludes with an appeal to professionals, churches, influencers, and traditional leaders to join their cause in what they frame as a fight to save the country and restore dignity to its people.