The Zimbabwe Exemption Permit Holders Association (Zepha) has called on the Zimbabwean government to expedite a voluntary repatriation programme.
They cited the increasingly intolerable conditions faced by Zimbabweans living in South Africa under the Zimbabwe Exemption Permit (ZEP) system.
In a memo addressed to the Zimbabwean ambassador to South Africa, Zepha detailed the growing legal and social challenges its members endure. The association claims that Zimbabweans under the ZEP system struggle to access essential services like healthcare, education, employment, and travel. They argue that many are forced to take legal action to secure these basic rights.
Zepha Argues Zimbabweans Are Exploited
Zepha argues that Zimbabweans in South Africa are exploited for their labour while being denied fundamental rights. “Their assistance for Zimbabwean staff extends only to prolonging exploitation, but not to providing Zimbabweans with the rights required to live full and dignified lives,” the memo states. It also accuses South African society of scapegoating Zimbabweans for economic issues, which has led to increased vigilantism and violent attacks without legal repercussions.
Zepha On Xenophobia and Political Exploitation
The memo reports that political parties like the Patriotic Alliance, MK Party, and ActionSA have intensified xenophobic rhetoric. It also highlights that groups like Operation Dudula are physically targeting foreigners. The memo states that these attacks appear orchestrated and intensify during elections. The association claims that South Africa’s white minority blames Zanu-PF for Zimbabwe’s economic collapse. They argue that the media reinforces perceptions of Zimbabwe as a failed state.
‘Psychological and Emotional Harm’
Zepha warns that Zimbabweans in South Africa face harsh treatment, leading to significant psychological distress. They emphasize that children, in particular, grow up feeling like second-class citizens. The memo lists discrimination in areas such as license renewals, police raids, banking restrictions, job dismissals, school exclusions, and medical care denials.
Zepha has accused South Africa’s Home Affairs Department of delaying permanent residency applications for ZEP holders, making it difficult for them to legalise their status. Given these challenges, Zepha urges the Zimbabwean government to assist with repatriation.
Do you support Schreiber’s decision to prolong the ZEPs?
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