Outcry over visa extensions for migrant workers

Operation Dudula has threatened to hit the streets if newly appointed Home Affairs Minister, Leon Schreiber, does not reconsider his decision to extend the temporary concession for foreign nationals who are currently awaiting the outcome of visa, waiver and appeal applications.

The extension protects applicants, including scarce skills workers from deportation following applications’ delays as officials work on reducing backlogs.

Operation Dudula is, however, not having this.

The party is accusing Schreiber of arrogance, saying his decision was not thought through.

Operation Dudula says the country already has a high unemployment rate, and these alleged skilled workers will compete with the already struggling South Africans for jobs.

The organisation’s unhappiness comes amid concerns from some South Africans on X, who believe that Schreiber’s move would apply to people who did not enter the country lawfully.

Did Leon Schreiber encouraged foreigners to find creative ways to enter the country illegally like CiC did?

— Ali G (@Ratshilumella) July 5, 2024

Xenophobes are not happy with the DA Ministers Leon Schreiber, someone with only Matric complaining about Engineers and Doctors taking their jobs. They thought the DA will support their hatred for Africans. Thank Leon here I give it to you, ignore the xenophobic comments. https://t.co/q4YQdFkej6

— Zwane (@MazuluZwan48979) July 5, 2024

The newly appointed Minister of Home Affairs, Leon Schreiber, advocates an agenda for the NWO capitalist Oligarchy who seeks to overlook natives,then find cheaper workers from other countries, DA’ divide and conquer strategy, starve natives to death pic.twitter.com/IpxQJa54nH

— BraTokolloZA_ (@BraTokolloZA_) July 5, 2024

The Minister has, however, dismissed this as true, saying it will only apply to legal visa holders, who are already contributing to South Africa.

He also warned that the days of spreading fake news are over.

If I were this ignorant, I’d be a little more careful not to advertise it. The concession applies to legal visa holders who are already contributing to South Africa through tourism, investment and skills, and who are waiting for Home Affairs to process legal renewals, waivers or… https://t.co/h5GIFKxSoj

— Leon Schreiber (@Leon_Schreib) July 4, 2024

Operation Dudula’s secretary general, Isaack Lesole, says Schreiber’s decision is concerning as it sends the message that he is out of touch with reality.

 

Lesole is urging the Minister first educate himself on the core challenges facing the Department of Home Affairs before making such uncalculated calls.

The African Transformation Movement (ATM) has also expressed similar concerns as Dudula.

In a statement, the party says Schreiber’s decision demonstrates a blatant disregard for the wellbeing and economic prospects of South Africans.

“With unemployment being one of the most pressing issues facing our country, it is imperative that we prioritise South African workers. This policy neglects the need to protect local jobs and exacerbates economic challenges.”

ATM also raised concern over influx of wealthy foreigners, particularly in Cape Town, whom X users have dubbed as ‘digital nomads’.

The party alleges that because of these foreigners, mainly from Europe, property values have skyrocketed, making housing increasingly inaccessible for locals.

“This phenomenon highlights the skewed priorities of Minister Schreiber’s policy, which fails to address the economic disparities faced by our citizens.” Written by Nokwazi Qumbisa