The March and March movement says it will intensify its nationwide Thursday marches following the fatal shooting of its Gauteng leader, Andile Mvuyelwa Somgxada, and what it describes as a wave of threats against its members.
Somgxada led the movement in Greenfields, Ekurhuleni, Gauteng.
National spokesperson Sandile Dube said Somgxada, whom he described as a “dedicated and peace-loving patriotic South African”, was gunned down as he left his home on July 4.
“He was rushed to hospital for medical treatment, where he fought for his life until the final hour on Thursday, July 9, 2026, when he was pronounced dead,” Dube said.
Dube said the killing comes amid reports that several other March and March movement leaders have received warnings or death threats.
According to him, the threats come from people who allegedly benefit from extortion and the collection of protection fees from undocumented foreign nationals operating illegal businesses.
“We call upon law enforcement authorities to get to the bottom of this matter, as it is bound to create unnecessary tension in various communities,” he said.
Dube also confirmed that the movement’s Tshwane regional leader received warning messages following a march held in Mamelodi on Thursday, July 9.
“Similar threats have also been received in Umlazi township in KwaZulu-Natal and in Mpumalanga province, all directed at March and March leaders,” he said.
Despite the threats, Dube said the movement would intensify its Thursday marches across the country, particularly in Gauteng, where it claims there is significant resistance and a high concentration of undocumented foreign nationals.
“We call upon South Africans to stand up in defence of their country against drug cartels, extortionists disguised as security companies, drug dealers and human trafficking agents whose businesses are being disrupted by these continuous marches,” he said.
He also urged South Africans to honour Somgxada’s life and legacy.
“We call upon South Africans to honour the life of a fellow patriot and marcher, Mr Andile Mvuyelwa Somgxada, whose legacy will never be allowed to fade in vain,” Dube said.
Dube said a memorial service for Somgxada is expected to be held in Gauteng later this week, while his funeral will take place in the Eastern Cape, subject to confirmation by his family.
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Simon Majadibodu
iol.co.za
