Members of the anti-immigration movement March and March led by Jacinta Ngobese-Zuma, staged another protest in the Eastern Cape on Monday 11 May 2026, demanding that undocumented migrants leave South Africa, and urged government to tighten enforcement of immigration laws.
The march comes after the alleged torching of the home of controversial broadcaster Ngizwe Mchunu on Sunday. Mchunu has become widely known for his outspoken criticism of illegal immigration and for leading demonstrations against undocumented foreign nationals.
Speaking during the protest, Ngobese-Zuma said members of the anti-immigration movement feel increasingly unsafe following the incident at Mchunu’s home. She also argued that African leaders should focus on improving conditions in their own countries so that citizens do not feel forced to migrate elsewhere.
The demonstration was held alongside civic organisation Phakama in the Eastern Cape, where protesters called on authorities to carry out mass deportations and strengthen border control measures.The protests form part of a growing wave of anti-immigration action in several parts of South Africa, where some groups claim undocumented migrants are contributing to crime, unemployment, and pressure on public services.
Meanwhile, President Cyril Ramaphosa has condemned the recent violence and protests targeting foreign nationals. In his latest public letter, Ramaphosa said the attacks were “opportunistic and criminal” and stressed that they do not represent either the views of most South Africans or official government policy.
The president called for calm and urged citizens to reject violence and unlawful actions against migrants and foreign nationals living in the country.
