March and March issue ultimatum to Lesufi as Joburg protest escalates tensions

Overview

A recent protest in Johannesburg saw hundreds of people march to the Gauteng Provincial Legislature. The demonstrators, representing groups like March and March, Operation Dudula, ActionSA, the Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) and the MK Party, voiced concerns about undocumented foreign nationals and alleged criminal activity linked to them. They gave Premier Panyaza Lesufi seven days to respond to a list of demands, warning that further demonstrations will follow if their requests are not met.

What Happened?

• The march began at Mary Fitzgerald Square in Newtown.
• Protesters walked to the legislature, carrying signs and, in some cases, samboks (traditional whips).
• Tensions rose in the Johannesburg CBD, with some marchers telling foreign‑owned shops to close.
• Several businesses shut down as the situation grew tense.

Who Was Involved?

• March and March – the organizing group behind the protest.
• Operation Dudula – known for anti‑immigrant patrols.
• ActionSA – political party led by Herman Mashaba.
• Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) and MK Party – additional political supporters.
• Police and metro police were present in large numbers to monitor the event.

Demands of the March

The protesters presented a memorandum with several key points:

1. Deportation of all undocumented foreigners – send anyone without legal papers back to their home country.
2. South African ownership of businesses – all stores in the city should be owned by South African citizens.
3. Review of documentation – check every person’s papers; those found to be in the country illegally must be deported.
4. Action against corrupt police – remove officers who work with illegal migrants and hold them accountable.
5. Tighter immigration controls – stricter visa rules, a review of asylum policies, and limits on services for undocumented migrants.
6. More labour inspectors – hire additional officials to enforce labour laws and prevent businesses from hiring undocumented workers.

Government Response

• Premier Panyaza Lesufi accepted the memorandum but said he would give a written reply within seven days.
• He was booed by some protesters as he left the scene.
• Government spokesperson William Baloyi later stated that authorities are strengthening border controls, expanding the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system, and increasing deportations (up 46% since April 2023, with 500 000 people removed).
• The government also announced plans to hire 10 000 extra labour inspectors to curb illegal employment.

Broader Context

• Similar protests have erupted in KwaZulu‑Natal and the Eastern Cape, showing the movement’s growing momentum.
• President Cyril Ramaphosa, speaking on Freedom Day, urged restraint and warned against xenophobia, reminding the nation that South Africa’s liberation was supported by many African countries.
• ActionSA leader Herman Mashaba argued that failing to act could fuel xenophobia and allow criminal syndicates to thrive, citing a recent kidnapping case he linked to foreign nationals.

Conclusion

The march highlights a deepening debate over immigration, crime, and national sovereignty in South Africa. While protesters demand swift deportations and stricter rules, the government insists it is already boosting border security and law‑enforcement efforts. The coming days will reveal whether Lesufi’s response satisfies the demonstrators or if further protests will continue to shape the public conversation.