The High Court recently issued a judgment that provided welcome relief to the more than 178,000 Zimbabweans living in South Africa on Zimbabwe Exemption Permits (ZEP). The court ruled that it was unconstitutional to revoke the licences, which had been extended until the end of the year. As hyperinflation, soaring prices, and rising unemployment continue to plague Zimbabwe’s economy, this ruling provides some welcome relief for those back home who have been supporting their crisis-weary loved ones.
Many Zimbabweans have left the country in search of better economic possibilities over the past two decades, with many relocating to neighbouring countries like South Africa and Botswana and further afield to Europe. Zimbabwe’s upcoming elections on August 23 will likely be heavily influenced by the country’s dire economic state. Nelson Chamisa, the major opposition leader, has accused President Emmerson Mnangagwa of worsening the economic downturn since Mnangagwa took power after Robert Mugabe was deposed in 2017.
Although most Zimbabweans living in South Africa cannot vote in the upcoming election since diaspora voting is not permitted, they continue to play a crucial role in Zimbabwe’s economy through remittances. Zimbabweans, however, were uncertain about their future because the ZEP dispensation had ended and they might be compelled to return home suddenly or face legal issues.
After the High Court ruled that the termination of ZEP permits was unconstitutional, residents of Zimbabwe were given more time to weigh their options. The court stressed the need for an impartial assessment of the existing situation in Zimbabwe before making any decisions regarding the permits. A fair and compliant procedure by administrative justice was emphasised by the Helen Suzman Foundation, which filed a legal challenge to the judgment.
Experts in immigration law at Webber Wentzel have announced a reprieve for ZEP holders and their employers. They can apply for a different type of visa, file a waiver request, or depart South Africa freely and legally. For Zimbabweans living in South Africa, this judgment is a ray of optimism that will help them plan for the future with a bit more assurance.
The High Court’s ruling provides some comfort for the time being, but the greater issue of Zimbabwe’s economic and political issues persists. Finding long-term solutions that get to the crux of the issue and pave the way toward economic stability and improved livelihoods is crucial to the well-being of Zimbabweans at home and abroad.
About The Author:
Sizwe Mikhwenya is a seasoned journalist specialising in business, the environment, and current affairs. With a decade-long career reporting on the pulse of South Africa, Lethabo’s work has been featured in some of the country’s most respected publications, earning recognition for her insightful, comprehensive reporting.
