The Department of Home Affairs is facing mounting pressure as protests erupt over the blocking of South African identity documents (IDs). Frustrated citizens and activist groups like Soil of Africa are taking to the streets, demanding the immediate unblocking of IDs that they claim have been wrongfully flagged.
Why are IDs being blocked?
The department has stated that at least 2 million IDs were blocked due to potential fraud. However, protestors allege that corruption within Home Affairs is a major contributing factor. Joseph Maake, regional convener of Soil of Africa, claims that individuals are even being asked for bribes of R50,000 to have their IDs unblocked. He also alleges that protestors were told to join the ANC to have their documents released, a claim that has sparked outrage.
Protests and Disruption
Recent protests have disrupted services at Home Affairs offices in Pretoria CBD. Scores of people blocked entrances, demanding action. One protestor, Moses Mabuza, stated his ID was blocked in 2012 without explanation, preventing him from accessing his retirement funds. "Please, I am suffering," he pleaded.
Legal Battles and Unfulfilled Promises
The issue of blocked IDs has been ongoing for some time. In January of last year, the Pretoria High Court ruled that Home Affairs had failed to follow proper procedure when blocking IDs, following a legal challenge by human rights lawyers. The court ordered the department to re-legitimize the blocked IDs and provide affected individuals with an opportunity to make representations. Despite this ruling, many remain blocked.
What's Next?
Home Affairs Deputy Director-General, Thomas Sigama, has promised to expedite the process of lifting blocks on IDs. However, activists remain skeptical and are demanding that the Minister of Home Affairs personally address their concerns. The blocking of IDs has significant consequences for individuals, preventing them from applying for jobs, accessing grants, and conducting basic financial transactions. The pressure is on Home Affairs to resolve this issue swiftly and transparently.