The African National Congress Youth League (ANCYL) President, Collen Malatji, has publicly called on Home Affairs Minister Dr. Leon Schreiber to urgently address illegal immigration and corruption within the Department of Home Affairs. Speaking at a media briefing at Luthuli House, Malatji stressed that the department must “pull up its socks” to safeguard South Africa’s stability and public services.
Malatji highlighted pressing issues such as inefficiencies in document issuance and widespread corruption, particularly following the recent fire at the Germiston Home Affairs office, which he suggested has exacerbated fraudulent activities. He dismissed arguments that Schreiber, who assumed the role in July 2024 as part of the Government of National Unity (GNU), needs more time to settle in, stating, “When there’s a new minister, he takes responsibility for everything - the good and the bad.”
The ANCYL leader also urged the strengthening of border security through modern technologies, such as drones, to protect national sovereignty. This comes amid Schreiber’s ongoing efforts to reform the department, including digital transformation initiatives and the clearance of a significant visa backlog, as acknowledged by President Cyril Ramaphosa in his State of the Nation Address.
Malatji’s remarks were part of a broader discussion on challenges facing South African youth, including unemployment and crime, as the ANCYL prepares for its 2nd National General Council.
