'You ignored us': Jacinta Ngobese-Zuma claims immigration cost parties votes

Jacinta Ngobese-Zuma, leader of the March and March movement, claims that the party lost votes in the 2026 Local Government Elections due to their failure to address voters' concerns about illegal immigration. Ngobese-Zuma asserts that by ignoring this issue, political parties chose the will of the people who wanted stricter immigration policies.

She warns that if the parties continue to evade this issue, their removal is imminent by 2029. Ngobese-Zuma condemns the personalization of the immigration debate and calls for the enforcement of immigration laws. The March and March movement, founded in 2024, has organized protests demanding deportation of undocumented immigrants, stricter border controls, and prioritization of jobs for South Africans.

Ngobese-Zuma denies the movement is xenophobic, stating it is about enforcing immigration law, not targeting people by nationality. Critics, including human rights groups and some political parties, have labeled the movement as xenophobic due to violent protests, damaged vehicles, alleged attacks on foreigners, and intimidation of traders.

The movement has been temporarily halted following a court order issued on 30 October, citing escalating violence and intimidation. The order will remain in effect until 6 November, with restricted protests resuming afterward. Ngobese-Zuma urges supporters to comply with the court order and not to vote for the ruling ANC party, citing their lack of engagement with their grievances after 21 months of marching.