Zimbabweans in SA Charmed By DA… Zimbabweans Must Stay in SA – They’re Vital for Our Economy: DA’s Helen Zille Urges Regularisation
Helen Zille, the Chairperson of the Democratic Alliance (DA), has sparked a buzz on social media after a video of her voicing her opposition to the expulsion of Zimbabweans holding Zimbabwe Exemption Permits (ZEP) emerged on social media.
DA Chair Zille Advocates for Regularizing Status of Zimbabweans in South Africa
In an old video footage shared by journalist Hopewell Chin’ono, Helen Zille contended that Zimbabweans should have their stay in South Africa regularised due to their significant contributions to the country’s economy.
Zille’s comments come amid increasing debates on immigration policies in South Africa. She stressed that the South African government should provide illegal immigrants with the opportunity to regularise their status, highlighting the potential economic benefits of such a policy.
“Many Zimbabweans in South Africa are highly skilled and contribute immensely to our economy,” Zille stated.
Zille Opposes Revoking Zimbabwean Permits, Calls for Comprehensive Immigration Reform
She argued that they can’t just take away the ZEP permit from them. She revealed that this is not something that they support or believe in.
Helen Zille pointed out that an inclusive approach towards immigration could attract skilled foreign workers and entrepreneurs, bolstering economic growth.
Zille cautioned against populist rhetoric, arguing that resolving the immigration issue is a complex and time-consuming process that requires a comprehensive, long-term solution. She emphasized that there is a need for proper laws, proper border patrols and the need to build state capacity without corruption.
When asked if they are going to kick out Zimbabweans, she said that they are not going to go around rounding up people like concentration centres. She emphasized that they have to fix the system first.
Helen Zille stated that addressing immigration effectively necessitates thoughtful policies rather than reactionary measures.