Helen Zille, Chairperson of the Democratic Alliance (D.A.), has firmly opposed the expulsion of Zimbabweans holding Zimbabwe Exemption Permits (ZEP), advocating instead for the regularization of their stay in South Africa. Zille highlighted the significant contributions these individuals have made to the South African economy.
Zille also emphasized that it would be prudent for the South African government to provide illegal immigrants with an opportunity to regularize their status. She highlighted the need for South Africa to attract skilled foreign workers and entrepreneurs with the financial means to start businesses in the country. Addressing the complexity of immigration issues, Zille stressed that a comprehensive, long-term solution is essential, rather than resorting to populist rhetoric. She noted that the Zimbabweans she knows in South Africa are highly skilled and valuable to the economy.
