A controversial civic group, March and March, led demonstrations in Durban, South Africa, on Wednesday, calling for stricter immigration laws and tighter border controls.
The protest drew support from political actors, including ActionSA, as well as members of the anti-migrant group Operation Dudula, amplifying demands for the mass deportation of undocumented foreign nationals.
Strong Rhetoric Sparks Criticism
The demonstration was marked by rhetoric widely criticised as xenophobic, with leaders and participants expressing frustration over the perceived impact of undocumented migration on public services and employment.
Jacinta Ngobese-Zuma, leader of March and March, questioned government policy allowing undocumented migrants access to public services such as healthcare.
“If you are saying you can’t refuse them healthcare, why must it be public? Make them pay for their own healthcare if they want to be here,” she said during the protest.
Political Backing and Policy Pressure
Herman Mashaba, leader of ActionSA, said his party joined the protest to pressure the government into taking firmer action on immigration.
“We are seeing our government allowing our country to be flooded by groups from all over the world… this is unacceptable,” Mashaba said, arguing that authorities have been too slow to respond.
He added that ActionSA supports the movement’s efforts to bring immigration concerns into national debate.
Economic and Social Concerns
Protesters cited unemployment and crime as key drivers behind their demands.
One participant, Muzi Xaba, argued that undocumented migrants were taking jobs that should go to South African citizens.
“We must remove foreigners and then hire South Africans,” he said, reflecting a sentiment shared by many demonstrators.
Anti-migrant groups have increasingly linked undocumented immigration to broader socio-economic challenges, including rising crime and pressure on public infrastructure—claims that remain contested among policymakers and researchers.
A Divisive National Debate
The Durban protest highlights a growing and polarised debate in South Africa over immigration policy, economic inequality, and social cohesion.
While some groups are pushing for stricter enforcement and deportations, critics warn that such rhetoric risks fuelling xenophobia and undermining constitutional protections and human rights.
As pressure mounts, the government faces the challenge of balancing border management, economic realities, and social stability in one of Africa’s most industrialised economies.
