With hundreds of protesters expected to descend in Sea Point tomorrow (16 June), the City of Cape Town says operational plans are in place to maintain safety and public order.

The demonstration, organised by advocacy group March and March, forms part of its ongoing campaign for tougher action on illegal immigration and greater accountability from government.

According to the City, the march has been formally authorised for 500 participants, with Public Order Police leading security operations.

Luthando Tyhalibongo, City of Cape Town’s Spokesperson, said: “A gathering notice was received and an Agreement and Amended Notice with conditions was issued… Saps (Public Order Police) is the lead agency responsible for regulating all gatherings. The City’s will provide support to police if needed.”

On Saturday 13 June, the group marched through Cape Town’s CBD to Parliament on to submit a memorandum calling for action against illegal immigration.

March and March Cape Town first attracted national attention a month ago when its leader, Jacinta Ngobese-Zuma, led a march through Bellville.

Addressing supporters at the time, she rejected claims that the movement’s stance amounted to xenophobia, insisting that its campaign was focused on the interests of South African citizens.

Nicola Jowell, ward 54 councillor, said in a Facebook post, tomorrow’s gathering is expected to start on Beach Road near Fort Road, proceed along Beach Road and St John’s Road, and return via Main Road.

Jowell said residents had raised concerns about the planned march but stressed that the right to assemble and protest peacefully is protected by the Constitution.

She said the police will be responsible for managing the gathering, while the City’s Safety and Security Directorate will support operations where necessary.

ALSO READ: Cape Town marchers bring illegal immigration demands to Parliament