Thousands of South Africans marched through Johannesburg on 21 March 2026 to declare that South Africa will not be bullied. The well-attended People’s March highlighted growing public frustration with US pressure on the country’s policies and foreign affairs.

Organised by the ANC and its alliance partners, the demonstration took place on Human Rights Day and signals strong grassroots support for the party ahead of the 2026 local government elections.

People’s March Delivers Clear Message in Johannesburg

Protesters gathered at Mary Fitzgerald Square in Newtown before marching across the Nelson Mandela Bridge to Constitution Hill in Braamfontein. They carried placards that read “We will not be bullied” and “In defence of our sovereignty and democratic gains”.

Marchers wore ANC colours and T-shirts printed with the slogan. The crowd presented a memorandum to Minister of Justice Mmamoloko Kubayi at the end of the route. The event drew thousands from across the country.

US Pressure on Policies Sparks Strong Backlash

The march follows recent comments by US Ambassador Leo Brent Bozell III, who expressed disappointment that South Africa has not addressed five key requests. These include abolishing broad-based black economic empowerment, stronger action on farm attacks, handling of the “Kill the Boer” song, land expropriation policies, a deal on critical minerals and issues linked to digital transformation.

President Cyril Ramaphosa has criticised US President Donald Trump for attacking South Africa’s foreign policy and transformation initiatives. Trump has also accused the government of enabling “white genocide” through farm killings, a claim South Africa rejects outright.

ICJ Intervention Deepens Diplomatic Tensions

On 13 March 2026 the United States filed a declaratory intervention at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in the case South Africa brought against Israel over Gaza. Washington labelled the genocide allegations false and argued that Israel lacks the specific intent required under the 1948 Genocide Convention.

This move adds to existing friction over South Africa’s independent foreign policy.

ANC and Government Responses to US Demands

ANC deputy secretary-general Nomvula Mokonyane criticised the US envoy for “undiplomatic statements”. The party has refused to alter its transformation policies and has declined formal meetings with the ambassador until he presents credentials to President Ramaphosa.

Minister Kubayi accepted the memorandum and reaffirmed government’s commitment to defending sovereignty. No further comment came from the US Embassy by publication time.