Ngizwe Mchunu has drawn widespread criticism after making controversial remarks suggesting that ordinary citizens have the right to confront foreign nationals and request identification documents from them.
Speaking at a rally in Durban under the March and March movement, Mchunu encouraged supporters to carry South African flags during planned demonstrations on 30 June 2026. According to him, the flags would help distinguish South African citizens during community actions linked to the movement’s anti-illegal immigration campaign.
During the gathering, Mchunu warned that undocumented foreign nationals should leave the country before the movement’s stated deadline. He further claimed that if government authorities failed to take action against illegal immigration, ordinary citizens would intervene themselves.
The movement’s activities, including informal compliance operations carried out in some communities, have already caused disruption in parts of the informal trading sector across the eThekwini metro. Reports indicate that the developments have created fear and uncertainty among residents, foreign nationals, and small business owners operating in affected areas.
Political analysts, legal experts, and human rights organisations have strongly criticised the statements, warning that such rhetoric could increase tensions and potentially trigger unrest similar to the violence and widespread looting experienced during the 2021 South African unrest. Critics argue that encouraging civilians to question individuals about their immigration status could promote unlawful vigilantism and place vulnerable communities at risk.
Legal experts have also emphasised that South African law does not permit ordinary citizens to conduct immigration enforcement operations or demand identification documents from members of the public. They maintain that only authorised law enforcement and immigration officials have the legal authority to carry out such duties.
In his address, Mchunu stated that “illegal immigrants must leave the country” and suggested that citizens would enforce the law themselves if authorities failed to act. He also encouraged supporters to display the South African flag on 30 June to identify themselves during the planned demonstrations.
Alongside Jacinta Ngobese-Zuma, Mchunu has emerged as one of the prominent figures associated with the March and March movement. His latest comments have intensified national debate surrounding immigration, public safety, and concerns over possible vigilante actions in different parts of South Africa.
