The March and March movement has announced it will stage another anti-undocumented immigration protest in the Eastern Cape on Nelson Mandela Day. It plans to use the annual 67 minutes of community service to intensify its campaign against undocumented foreign nationals.
Also see: ‘Today is not about migrants’: Jacinta Ngobese-Zuma calls for calm during March and March action
Organisers say the march forms part of their ongoing nationwide campaign calling for stronger immigration enforcement and the removal of undocumented immigrants from South Africa.
Campaign continues after June protests
The announcement comes weeks after March and March coordinated anti-undocumented immigration protests across several provinces on 30 June, following the group’s self-imposed deadline for undocumented foreign nationals to leave the country. Those demonstrations were largely peaceful, although police maintained a strong presence amid concerns over possible unrest.
Also see: Who funds March and March? Jacinta Ngobese-Zuma provides answers
According to SABC News, the movement has repeatedly said it intends to continue holding demonstrations until it believes government has addressed its concerns around border security, immigration enforcement and employment opportunities for South Africans.
Authorities urge peaceful protest
Authorities have previously said law enforcement agencies are prepared to monitor demonstrations and have urged organisers and participants to protest peacefully and within the law. During previous marches, government leaders also warned against vigilantism and emphasised that immigration enforcement remains the responsibility of the state.
The latest planned march is expected to draw renewed attention to South Africa’s ongoing debate over undocumented immigration, border management and public safety, issues that have sparked widespread public discussion in recent months.
Also see: Internet reacts to Ayanda Ntanzi’s presence at anti-illegal immigration march
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