The anti-immigration movement known as ‘March and March’ has officially distanced itself from calls for a national shutdown scheduled for 30 June 2026, labelling their planned actions as peaceful protests instead. The group has set the date as an informal deadline for undocumented foreign nationals to depart South Africa, sparking concerns among government officials and law enforcement regarding potential civil unrest.
Official Security Response And Government Stance
Government authorities have rejected the notion of a national shutdown, with the Presidency and the acting Minister of Police confirming that no such event has been authorised. Security agencies remain on high alert with operational plans in place to address any potential acts of violence, intimidation, or lawlessness that may occur on the day.
While the constitutional right to peaceful protest will be respected, no acts of lawlessness, violence, intimidation or criminality will be tolerated.
Speaking on the matter, Acting Minister of Police Firoz Cachalia emphasised that while the state acknowledges public frustration, vigilantism will not be permitted. Cape Town Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis echoed this sentiment during recent public engagements, stating that the law must be enforced by state institutions rather than mobs. Minister of Defence Angie Motshekga also noted that while the right to protest is protected, the government expects all demonstrations to remain safe and within the confines of the law.
Local Demonstrations And Community Context
Prior to the June 30 date, the ‘March and March’ campaign has staged smaller protests in various Cape Town suburbs, including demonstrations in Sea Point on June 16 and a march from Wynberg to Newlands on June 20. These earlier gatherings involved between 40 and 100 participants, raising questions about the movement’s capacity and intentions as the deadline approaches.
The current tension follows a recurring pattern of anti-immigration sentiment in the Western Cape, often exacerbated by social media activity calling for the removal of foreign nationals. Authorities are monitoring these developments closely to prevent a recurrence of large-scale unrest, drawing on lessons from previous periods of instability in the country. Law enforcement is expected to maintain a visible presence in affected areas as the deadline passes.