Constitutional Court judges found themselves baffled by the Department of Home Affairs after it ignored a 2017 court order to amend immigration legislation.
The language and tone of papers submitted in a civil matter by two legal counsel instructed by a Makhanda law firm prompted the ire of the judge who heard the case.
The Pretoria High Court has begun hearing one of the most significant human rights cases in recent times, as four separate cases challenge South African Home Affairs Minister Aaron Motsoaledi's decision to terminate the Zimbabwean Exemption Permit (ZEP) system. The termination of ZEP would leave 178,000 permit holders and their families undocumented and struggling to obtain alternative permits that allow them to continue living and working in South Africa. The Helen Suzman Foundation, represented by Advocate Steven Budlender, argues that the minister's decision is unlawful, unconstitutional, and invalid. With the 30 June 2023 deadline approaching for ZEP holders to obtain alternative permits, the future of these permit holders hangs in the balance. Motsoaledi has encouraged them to apply for 'mainstream' visas, but few are likely to qualify according to the Department of Home Affairs Critical Skills List.
If the Helen Suzman Foundation or the Zimbabwe Immigration Federation succeeds on just one ground of review, it will likely mean a reprieve for ZEP holders
Zimbabwean permit: High Court considers if Motsoaledi's decision is irrational or executive action thezimbabwean.co - get the latest breaking news, showbiz & celebrity photos, sport news & rumours, viral videos and top stories from thezimbabwean.co Daily Mail and Mail on Sunday newspapers.