The newly appointed Home Affairs Minister, Leon Shreiber, has been requested to subject the Zimbabwean Exemption Permit (ZEP) to a review process.
The call was made by I’m a Patriot, NPC SA, an organisation advocating for the prioritisation of South African rights.
The organisation wants South Africans to have more say regarding the future of ZEPs.
ZEP is a document that the Department of Home Affairs implemented to allow Zimbabweans without South African citizenship to remain in the country for at least five years.
The non-profit organisation’s executive director, Ntando Denny, said in the letter to Schreiber that he should give immediate attention to the ZEP issue and engage the public on the matter.
Public participation
“It is imperative that South African natives are included and consulted in decisions that affect them directly,” Denny said.
“Public participation fosters a sense of ownership and responsibility among citizens and ensures that diverse perspectives are considered.
“By involving the public, we can develop more comprehensive and effective policies that reflect the needs and aspirations of all South Africans,” he adds.
Denny said the White Paper, which is the process of developing laws, should not be delayed any further as it is important for shaping national policies and frameworks.
Denny demands that the document’s recommendations be implemented right away, considering that the White Paper represents the collective input and vision of South Africa and should be executed with due diligence.
Push for investigations to continue
“The ongoing investigations by the Special Investigating Unit must not be halted under any circumstances,” Denny said.
“These investigations are vital for ensuring accountability, transparency, and justice within our governmental institutions.
“Public participation fosters a sense of ownership and responsibility among citizens and ensures that diverse perspectives are considered.
“By involving the public, we can develop more comprehensive and effective policies that reflect the needs and aspirations of all South Africans.”
