Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture and Patriotic Alliance (PA) leader Gayton McKenzie has issued a strong warning to members of his party, urging them not to participate in the planned June 30 anti-illegal immigration demonstrations organised by the March and March movement.
Speaking in a video message shared on social media, McKenzie made it clear that the Patriotic Alliance does not support the protests and that any party member who takes part in them could face disciplinary action, including possible expulsion.
The March and March campaign has gained attention in recent months as it continues to mobilise supporters across several provinces. The movement has been linked to public figures including Jacinta Ngobese-Zuma and Ngizwe Mchunu and has organised demonstrations in KwaZulu-Natal, Johannesburg and Mpumalanga. Its supporters have called for stronger action against undocumented foreign nationals and have set June 30 as a deadline for government intervention.
However, McKenzie said the Patriotic Alliance wants no association with the movement. He stressed that progress is already being made regarding illegal immigration and questioned the need for further demonstrations.
According to the minister, authorities have already intensified efforts to deal with undocumented migrants, with reports indicating that many foreign nationals have voluntarily returned to their countries of origin. He pointed to ongoing cooperation between South Africa and neighbouring countries as evidence that government measures are producing results.
McKenzie also cautioned South Africans against directing their frustrations toward foreign nationals. He warned that emotions surrounding immigration issues could easily lead to conflict and instability if not managed responsibly.
The PA leader specifically urged residents in communities such as Eldorado Park and Ennerdale not to become involved in the planned protests. He argued that these areas had not experienced the same tensions linked to immigration concerns and should not be drawn into actions that could create unnecessary division.
One of the strongest messages in McKenzie’s statement was his warning about possible government intervention if the demonstrations escalate. He indicated that the state would not hesitate to respond if public order or safety were threatened.
His comments have sparked debate online, with some South Africans supporting his call for restraint while others argue that citizens have a right to protest over concerns related to illegal immigration.
The latest remarks come amid ongoing criticism that McKenzie has softened his position on undocumented foreign nationals since becoming part of the Government of National Unity (GNU). Before the 2024 general elections, he was one of the most vocal advocates of the Patriotic Alliance’s “Abahambe” campaign, which called for undocumented migrants to leave South Africa.
Addressing those accusations recently, McKenzie insisted that his views have not changed. Instead, he said his role in government requires a more measured and responsible approach to dealing with complex immigration challenges.
As June 30 approaches, tensions surrounding immigration remain a major topic of national discussion. While some groups continue to push for large-scale protests, McKenzie has made it clear that the Patriotic Alliance will not be part of the movement and expects its members to stay away from the demonstrations.
About the Author
