Xolani Zuma Says Court Suspends March and March Marches Until After Elections

Durban attorney Xolani Zuma has confirmed that the High Court has temporarily stopped all marches by the March and March movement until after the local government elections. The suspension starts from tomorrow.

Speaking to Durban Network outside court, Zuma explained that the order was granted to keep things calm during the voting period. He said the group and its linked organisation, SA First, never planned to call for a boycott of the elections. Their members are free to go and vote on 4 November like everyone else.

March and March has been active in Durban and other parts of the country, mainly speaking out against illegal immigration and calling for stronger action by authorities. Their recent marches in the city centre have drawn large crowds and, at times, led to tension with police and businesses. The court application was brought by the police, who argued that continued large gatherings could stretch resources and disrupt preparations for the elections.

The interim order does not ban the organisation permanently. It pauses public marches until after election day so that police can focus on securing polling stations. Once the voting is over, the movement will be allowed to resume activities under stricter conditions, including limits on times and a ban on carrying sticks, knobkerries and other items that could be used as weapons. The matter will return to court in January next year for a final decision.

Zuma stressed that the group respects the court’s ruling. He told supporters they should use the break to encourage people to vote rather than stay away. “We want the elections to go smoothly,” he said. “Our members will be out there voting, not disrupting.”

The local government elections on 4 November will choose councillors across the country. In KwaZulu-Natal, parties and civic groups have been campaigning hard, and police have increased deployments to keep polling stations safe. The temporary pause on March and March marches is one of several measures aimed at reducing the chance of unrest in the final days before voters go to the polls.

Community leaders and business owners in Durban have welcomed the breathing space. Many hope the quieter streets will allow people to focus on the election without the disruption that has accompanied some recent protests. For now, March and March members are expected to stay off the streets until the votes have been counted.

Source: https://x.com/Durbannetwork/status/2116187884155781170

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