Thousands march in Cape Town, calling for an end to genocide in Palestine

Palestinians who made Cape Town their home after fleeing their country for safety together with political leaders and even young children, braved the scorching sun on Saturday as thousands marched in the CBD calling for an end to the ongoing genocide in Gaza.

The crowd marched from Muir Street to Parliament, chanting “Free Palestine” and “Palestine will be free!”

Palestinian Malik Mohammed, who fled her home, expressed gratitude for the support.

“They made me feel at home. South Africans are so friendly and sweet. Wherever I go, I feel loved. Our life before the war was perfect, and being here reminds me of that. This march shows that things can change, and that people care.”

Among the marchers was uMkhonto weSizwe Deputy President John Hlophe, who said: "Their struggle cannot be separated from our struggle."

Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) MP Carl Niehaus added: "We support the flotilla currently heading to Gaza, and we call on all people of the world to stand with the people of Palestine."

EFF member Nazier Paulsen highlighted growing global awareness.

"South Africans must hold to our legacy, isolate the apartheid state of Israel diplomatically, and impose economic sanctions so that a free Palestine can become a reality." he said.

Mogamad Salie Devajee, who travelled with his family from Kimberley, said: “We came to the march to represent Gaza and condemn what is happening there."

The coalition of South African civil society organisations, trade unions, faith-based groups, and political parties submitted a memorandum to Speaker Thoko Didiza, urging government action and a response within 14 days.

The memorandum calls for the immediate enactment of the Apartheid Bill, which would criminalise apartheid under South African law and provide a legal basis for boycotts, divestment, and sanctions (BDS) against Israel.

The groups cite findings from the UN Commission of Inquiry, International Court of Justice (ICJ), and International Criminal Court (ICC), which have documented Israel’s acts of genocide, war crimes, and apartheid, including mass killings, destruction of Gaza, and displacement of civilians.

They argue that South Africa’s continued trade and corporate ties with Israel.

Key demands include the termination of diplomatic relations with Israel, suspension of economic, cultural, academic, and sporting ties, prosecution of corporations complicit in Israeli apartheid and genocide, and enforcement of ICJ rulings such as reparations, return of displaced Palestinians, and dismantling of settlements.

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