Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) president Julius Malema has criticised the March and March movement, accusing it of promoting division among Africans through its anti-immigration campaign.
Also see: Ngizwe Mchunu issues official apology to Julius Malema
Speaking at a recent gathering, Julius rejected claims that South Africans are broadly xenophobic, arguing that the actions of a small group should not define the country’s relationship with the rest of the continent.
“There is no xenophobia in South Africa. It’s a few groups of thugs who think they can run our country and make Africa divided. We do not subscribe to xenophobia,” Julius said.
His remarks come as March and March continues to campaign against undocumented immigration, organising demonstrations across the country and calling for stricter border controls and stronger action against illegal immigration. The movement has gained significant attention in recent months, with supporters arguing that undocumented immigration contributes to crime and unemployment, while critics accuse it of fuelling xenophobic sentiment.
Julius Malema calls for African unity
During his address, the EFF leader emphasised the close ties between South Africans and neighbouring countries, saying many families and communities span national borders.
“We will never hate Batswana because we are married to each other, we even have children together, we go to school together,” he said.
Julius argued that Africans share deep historical, cultural and family connections that should not be undermined by political campaigns that pit one nationality against another.
He maintained that the EFF remains committed to Pan-Africanism, a principle that advocates for unity and cooperation among African nations.
Also see: March and March schedules anti-undocumented immigration protest for Mandela Day
“There is no xenophobia in South Africa it’s few groups of thugs who think they can run our country and make Africa divided, we do not subscribe to xenophobia” EFF President Julius Malema
“We will never hate Batswana because we are married to each other, we even have children… pic.twitter.com/iYVQHR7JKs
— News Live SA (@newslivesa) July 19, 2026
Debate over immigration continues
The comments add to the ongoing national debate around immigration and border security. While many South Africans have called for improved immigration management and stronger enforcement against undocumented immigration, organisations including the EFF have cautioned against rhetoric that could encourage hostility towards foreign nationals.
March and March has insisted that its campaign is aimed at undocumented immigration rather than foreign nationals in general. However, the movement has faced criticism from political leaders and civil society groups, who argue that some of its messaging risks increasing tensions between South Africans and migrants.
Julius reiterated that addressing South Africa’s challenges should not come at the expense of unity across the African continent, saying efforts to solve domestic issues must avoid creating divisions among people who share histories and cultures.
Also see: Ngizwe Mchunu refuses to apologise to Julius Malema after court ruling
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