Residents from Atteridgeville and Laudium who participated in the recent “March on March” demonstration in Pretoria Central on 29 June 2026 say they plan to continue taking part in weekly protest actions throughout July, citing concerns about law enforcement, immigration control, and community safety.
The Pretoria Central gathering formed part of a wider national wave of demonstrations held by the March-on-March organisation. Participants raised concerns relating to undocumented migration, alleged illegal trading activities, crime, drug-related offences, and broader socio-economic pressures affecting local communities.
While some Atteridgeville residents had initially considered organising a separate local march, many instead joined the Pretoria Central march. Following the event, participants shown that further protest action would continue every Thursday in July, with community members confirming their intention to remain involved.
Community members who attended the Pretoria Central march say their decision to continue protesting is driven by frustration over what they describe as inconsistent enforcement of laws and increasing pressure on local livelihoods.
Lefa Mokoena, an Atteridgeville resident who took part in the march, said residents felt they needed to keep raising their concerns publicly.
“We are not trying to attack anyone, but we feel our concerns are ignored. The government must ensure that laws are enforced fairly. If people are operating businesses illegally or are in the country unlawfully, authorities must act. That is why we will continue to protest every Thursday,” he said.
Another resident, Zack Ndzimande, said unemployment and competition in the informal economy remain key issues for many in the community.
“People in our communities are struggling to find jobs. Many feel that illegal trading is making the situation worse. We joined the march because we want these issues to be addressed properly,” he said.
Marchers from Laudium who joined the march emphasised the importance of peaceful and lawful demonstrations, warning against violence or discrimination.
Joshua Mthembu, a Laudium resident, said while communities have the right to protest, it must be done responsibly.
“Everyone has the right to protest, but it must be done peacefully and within the law. We are calling for government to act on community concerns, but we do not support violence or targeting of innocent people,” he said.
Nthabiseng Phasha, also from Laudium, shared similar concerns, urging restraint amid rising tensions.
“There is a lot of frustration in communities right now, but we must ensure protests stay peaceful and do not lead to harm or division. These issues must be handled responsibly,” she said.
Community members involved in the Pretoria Central march say weekly protests are expected to continue every Thursday throughout July, with participants from multiple communities taking part.
They also said the march will focus on calls for stronger law enforcement, improved immigration management, and action against alleged illegal business operations.
Authorities have previously encouraged residents to exercise their constitutional right to protest peacefully and to avoid any form of intimidation or violence.