Home Affairs withdraws directive on asylum seeker applications

The Department of Home Affairs has withdrawn a directive issued on September 28 that expanded the intake of asylum seeker applications following a Constitutional Court ruling.

The department says the directive was an operational decision taken by the Director-General’s office without the knowledge or involvement of the Minister or any political office-bearers.

Home Affairs has rejected claims that the directive was politically motivated, saying the implementation of the court order overwhelmed Refugee Reception Offices, placed officials at risk, and raised public safety concerns.

The department says it will now begin a fresh process to determine how best to comply with the Constitutional Court judgment while ensuring the safe and effective operation of asylum services.

SANDF deployment The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) and police have been deployed in Soweto, Johannesburg following clashes between foreign nationals and local residents.

At least 10 vehicles were torched and damaged, with reports of an exchange of gunfire during the clashes on Thursday.

Local residents say they feel unsupported by government and want their concerns over immigration and economic opportunities in the township addressed.

The situation in Soweto remains calm this morning, with a high police and army presence in the area.

Residents are expected to continue engaging on their concerns after vowing to continue with their protest peacefully.

Police say clashes sparked the commotion, with shops looted.

They have warned that acts of violence will not be tolerated.

VIDEO | Clashes between foreign shop owners and locals in Soweto In Marabastad There’s a heightened police presence in and around the Marabastad Home Affairs office in Pretoria, where foreign nationals are queuing to apply for asylum.

This follows an anticipated protest by civic movement March and March, which opposes the Constitutional Court ruling on asylum applications handed down in July.

Among those opposing the ruling is community member Alex Ntuli, who says he’s disappointed by government over the matter.