Anti-Migrant Leaders Deflect Responsibility Ahead of June 30 Protests

Leaders of a coalition of more than 20 anti-immigrant organisations have insisted that planned nationwide protests on June 30 will remain peaceful. During a press briefing at the Protea Hotel in Midrand, organisers stated that no looting, killings, or violations would take place in their name.

Jacinta Ngobese-Zuma, a leader of the March and March movement, argued that the responsibility for maintaining law and order rests entirely with the state. She rejected the idea that the movement is responsible for potential violence, questioning why the government is not using its resources to protect the country.

Ngobese-Zuma stated that the June 30 deadline, originally announced by activist Nkosikhona Ndabandaba, is intended to pressure the government to enforce existing immigration laws and secure the nation's borders. She denied accusations that the movement promotes vigilantism, claiming the campaign focuses on law enforcement rather than hostility toward foreigners.

The movement's leaders blamed the government for failing to address the crisis of illegal immigration, which they link to issues such as human trafficking and children on the streets. Ngobese-Zuma asserted that those who allowed illegal immigration in the first place should be the ones held accountable.

Despite these assurances, the deadline has sparked widespread fear. President Cyril Ramaphosa has previously warned against the scapegoating of vulnerable people and emphasized that immigration enforcement is the duty of the department of home affairs and law enforcement agencies.

While the organisers maintain their commitment to peaceful action, some participants have expressed a different sentiment. Protester Nkosikhona Ndabandaba stated that he cannot control the people of South Africa on June 30. Meanwhile, the coalition intends to continue its mobilization to ensure immigration enforcement remains a priority ahead of local government elections.