Afrika Mayibuye Movement calls June 30 anti-immigration marches “largest” since 1994

The Afrika Mayibuye Movement has described the June 30 anti-illegal immigration demonstrations as “the largest national protest action in South Africa since 1994.” In a statement issued on Tuesday the movement praised the campaign’s leadership and the conduct of participants while rejecting claims the protests were externally funded.

Praise for leadership and discipline

The organisation singled out March and March leaders Jacinta Ngobese-Zuma, Nkosikhona Ndabandaba (Phakel’umthakathi) and Ngizwe Mchunu, calling the day of action “peaceful, well-organised and successful.” The movement said the campaign mobilised thousands across the country in a unified and determined call for the restoration of order, sovereignty and service delivery to South African nationals.

“The protest action stands as the largest national protest action in South Africa since 1994,”

Afrika Mayibuye also said its members took part in marches “without an inch of opportunism” and that those who had predicted violence were wrong. “Doomsayers who anticipated violence have been profoundly disappointed by the discipline and order displayed,” the statement said.

Rejection of outside funding claims

The movement criticised what it described as attempts by some politicians and elites to mischaracterise the demonstrations. It rejected suggestions the protests had been funded or coordinated by external interests, saying:

“Mayibuye rejects the notion driven by the neoliberal elite and failed politicians that these protests are sponsored by nefarious and external forces and elements. These are authentic voices of ordinary people.”

Protests feed a national debate

Tuesday’s demonstrations form part of a wider national debate about immigration enforcement, border management and service delivery. The protests have prompted responses from political parties, civil society organisations and government leaders, exposing deep divisions over the issues and the tone of the campaign.

Supporters of the marches argue they reflect public frustration over illegal immigration, crime, strained public services and weak border controls. Critics, however, have warned that the rhetoric surrounding the campaign risks fuelling xenophobia and violence against foreign nationals, a concern raised even as organisers emphasise a focus on undocumented immigration.

Call to continue activism

The Afrika Mayibuye Movement concluded its statement by commending the campaign’s leadership and urging continued action. It encouraged the March and March campaign and broader civil society to “fight on and never retreat in the struggle against illegal and undocumented immigration.”