The planned protest in Thembisa continued peacefully on Tuesday, with demonstrators marching through the township under the watch of the SAPS and EMPD.

At the time of publication, no incidents of violence or damage to property had been reported. Public transport services remained operational, schools continued with normal activities, and protesters were not forcing businesses to close or residents to join the march.

ActionSA’s mayoral candidate, Xolani Khumalo, commended the peaceful nature of the demonstration, saying the march aimed to call on government to strengthen its response to illegal immigration.

According to Khumalo, community members also gathered to ensure that spaza shops, which had closed for the day remained closed during the protest.

Also read: Kempton march underway, Isando Road and Thembisa monitored

“Today we are here to practise our right to protest. We are saying as the community no one will open a spaza shop unless they are South African,” he said.

Looking beyond the day’s demonstration, Khumalo encouraged residents to consider how communities could become more involved in the township economy by opening and operating their own businesses.

“I want to see our people work; not everyone should be criminals. I want our people to look out for opportunities that exist for them within the community,” he said.

The march is expected to conclude at the Rabasotho Police Station.

Also read: Calm in Thembisa despite business closures, increased security

Several protesters who spoke to Thembisan expressed frustration with government’s handling of illegal immigration and crime, saying they believe stronger action is needed. They said the demonstration was intended to draw attention to their concerns and encourage greater support for South African citizens and local economic participation.

Some participants also alleged that undocumented foreign nationals are involved in criminal activity. These claims have not been independently verified, and no evidence was provided during the interviews to substantiate them.

Authorities have continued to monitor the march throughout the day, maintaining a visible law enforcement presence to ensure the protest remains peaceful.

Residents are reminded to obtain updates from official sources and to avoid sharing unverified information on social media or messaging platforms, as misinformation can create unnecessary panic and hinder emergency response efforts.

This is a developing story and will be updated as more information becomes available.