Cape Town — The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) has accused the Department of Home Affairs of inefficiency and corruption, claiming that these failures drive foreigners into crime and contribute to xenophobia in South Africa.
This was raised during a National Council of Provinces (NCOP) session on Thursday, where the EFF’s Nolubabalo Mcinga challenged Minister of Home Affairs Leon Schreiber on measures to improve service delivery, particularly in processing citizenship and permanent residence applications.
Mcinga highlighted the lengthy delays and alleged systemic bias against African asylum seekers, who often wait up to seven years for interview appointments, leaving them in illegal status “due to no fault of their own”.
She argued that the inefficiencies perpetuate vulnerability and foster xenophobic sentiments among South Africans.
In response, Schreiber acknowledged the department’s shortcomings, saying that long delays and corruption significantly undermine Home Affairs and the state’s ability to manage immigration effectively.
“The truth is, chair, we have to enhance the efficiency of Home Affairs very significantly if we want to play our role in nation building in dealing with the scourge of xenophobia,” he said.
He stressed the importance of enhancing efficiency to address xenophobia, saying that digitising processes could help reduce bias and corruption.
“Bias is inherent in human nature,”and giving discretion to human beings will lead to some bias and corruption, Schreiber said.
He noted that digitisation of applications and a focus on eradicating backlogs are key to improving the department’s performance.
The minister also committed to reviewing the booking system at refugee centers to expedite appointments and reduce corrupt practices.
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu
