A storm has erupted after a Zimbabwean prophet claimed to have foreseen an assassination attempt on March and March leader Jacinta Ngobese-Zuma, prompting the civic movement to condemn the prediction as reckless and dangerous.
The controversy began after self-proclaimed prophet Mellontik Orasi shared a social media post claiming he had received a vision that Ngobese-Zuma would face an assassination attempt. His post quickly spread online, drawing criticism from supporters of the anti-illegal immigration activist and political figures.
In a strongly worded statement, March and March rejected the prophecy, describing it as an irresponsible act that could fuel violence against its leader.
“We condemn in the strongest possible terms the irresponsible and dangerous statements made by the so-called prophet. Such utterances are not prophecy but incitement, and they place the life of our leader at risk,” the movement said.
The organisation warned that making public predictions of violent attacks could embolden individuals with malicious intentions and create unnecessary panic.
“Our movement is committed to peaceful activism and the defence of South Africans through lawful means. We reject any attempt to normalise threats or violence under the guise of prophecy.”
The movement further urged law enforcement authorities to investigate the matter, arguing that public figures should not be subjected to statements that could be interpreted as encouraging violence.
Orasi’s prediction sparked widespread outrage on social media, with many users accusing him of irresponsibly spreading fear instead of offering spiritual guidance. Others called on religious leaders to distance themselves from messages they believe could incite harm.
Ngobese-Zuma has become one of South Africa’s most recognisable and controversial activists through the March and March movement, which has organised nationwide demonstrations calling for tougher action against illegal immigration. While the movement insists its campaigns are peaceful, it has faced criticism from those who accuse it of promoting anti-foreigner sentiment.
The latest controversy comes just weeks after March and March led anti-illegal immigration protests across several parts of the country, with Ngobese-Zuma repeatedly appealing to supporters to remain peaceful and avoid violence during the demonstrations.
Despite the backlash, Orasi has not publicly withdrawn his comments. However, March and March maintains that prophecies predicting violence against individuals have no place in public discourse and should be condemned by religious leaders and society alike.
“We will not be intimidated. We remain committed to our mission and will continue our work without fear,” the movement said.
