WATCH | ‘How can a person who was a leader call for violence?’: Mbalula attacks Zuma ahead of 30 June protests

Zuma

Johannesburg – ANC secretary-general Fikile Mbalula has accused MK Party leader and former president Jacob Zuma of fuelling anti-immigrant sentiment ahead of planned June 30 protests against undocumented foreign nationals.

Addressing the media in Johannesburg on Thursday, Mbalula criticised Zuma for endorsing the slogan “Mabahambe” and said his actions were irresponsible and risked worsening hostility toward Africans.

“Jacob Zuma has endorsed March and March and effectively embraced its position. His secretary-general has mentioned me and the president by name in defence of illegal activities,” Mbalula said.

“They have not stood up for principle. I have listened carefully to traditional leaders, including the king, who has been very responsible and clear that the government must address immigration issues without resorting to actions that undermine social cohesion.”

He added: “A man who was a president in this country, stands up on a platform and fuels violence. How can a person who was a leader not so long ago call for violence in the country? Does he know what will happen here? Who wants this violence? These people don’t know what they are talking about. He is supporting them for political reasons, because he wants votes.”

The remarks come as more than 20 organisations prepare nationwide demonstrations calling for undocumented migrants to leave South Africa.

While organisers insist the protests will be peaceful, some leaders have warned they cannot take responsibility if violence breaks out, with police and government allocating increased security resources and over R600 million for operations.

Acting Police Minister Firoz Cachalia has warned that any incitement, intimidation or destruction of property will not be tolerated.

Mbalula also accused the MK Party of aligning with the protest movement and said Zuma should bear some responsibility for current immigration challenges, linking them to policies during his presidency.

Zuma, who was expelled from the ANC in 2024 after backing the MK Party, has since become a central figure in opposition politics, particularly on immigration-related issues.

Article written by