March and March dismisses split rumours, backs Jacinta Ngobese-Zuma

Leaders of the March and March movement in KwaZulu-Natal have rejected speculation of internal divisions, insisting that founder Jacinta Ngobese-Zuma remains firmly in charge despite rumours circulating on social media.

Speaking during a demonstration in Empangeni against the participation of undocumented immigrants in the local economy, King Cetshwayo district chairperson Xolani Gumede said structures across his district and neighbouring municipalities continued to recognise Ngobese-Zuma’s authority and leadership.

Gumede explained that local branches report directly to the movement’s National Executive Committee, which is led by Ngobese-Zuma, saying this demonstrated that she continued to enjoy strong organisational support. He dismissed suggestions that key figures within the movement were attempting to remove or sideline her, describing the claims as misinformation designed to weaken the organisation.

According to Gumede, the alleged divisions were being fuelled by outside actors seeking to distract supporters from the movement’s campaign against illegal immigration. He maintained that neither Ngobese-Zuma nor other prominent members had initiated any internal conflict and urged supporters to remain focused on the movement’s objectives.

He also pointed to the movement’s ongoing “30th campaign”, saying Ngobese-Zuma’s call for supporters to stage demonstrations every Thursday had been widely embraced across various districts, reinforcing her influence within the organisation.

While defending the leadership, Gumede acknowledged that some challenges had emerged as individuals organised protests under the March and March banner without following the movement’s established procedures. He said members needed greater guidance on the legal and organisational requirements for staging demonstrations.

During Thursday’s protest, King Cetshwayo organiser Thandile Jojozi clarified that the march was intended to follow up on an earlier memorandum submitted to the City of uMhlathuze rather than present a new list of demands. The organisers said they wanted municipal officials to account for progress made after previous complaints regarding undocumented foreign nationals operating businesses in the area and allegations that some salons were being used as fronts for drug-related activities.

The demonstration forms part of a wider campaign by March and March, which has organised protests across South Africa calling for stricter enforcement of immigration laws. The movement has attracted significant national attention in recent weeks as debates over illegal immigration, border security and xenophobia continue to intensify.