Dear Portfolio Committee on Home Affairs,

I am writing to express my strong objection to the Immigration Amendment Bill currently under consideration. While it is essential to uphold the values of human rights and dignity, we must not overlook the dire circumstances faced by many South Africans today, over 30 years into our democratic journey.

Despite the promises of our Constitution, countless citizens continue to endure inhumane living conditions. Our country grapples with escalating crime rates, particularly relating to the drug trade, human trafficking, and sex trafficking. These issues are not merely statistics; they represent the daily struggles faced by our people, making it imperative to prioritize their safety and well-being.

Moreover, the apparent failure of our border control systems has become a pressing concern. As more foreigners enter our borders, our already limited resources are stretched even further. South Africans are fighting for basic necessities, yet the influx of foreign nationals results in additional strain on our services, leaving many South Africans without access to essential support. There are alarming levels of fraud undermining the integrity of our educational institutions, with matric certificates, university degrees, and even identities being compromised. The recent Miss South Africa controversy highlights how easily illegal foreigners can navigate privilege and opportunity within our borders, often without facing any accountability.

Our healthcare system is similarly burdened, with allegations of foreign nurses operating without proper credentials, compromising care quality. This situation leaves vulnerable South Africans with diminished access to healthcare, leading to unnecessary suffering and, tragically, fatalities.

Lastly, we must acknowledge the treatment of South Africans abroad. While we advocate for the rights of foreigners here, many of them choose to ignore the mistreatment that our citizens face in other countries. This double standard is unacceptable and should prompt us to rethink our approach to immigration policies.

In summary, I implore you to reconsider the Immigration Amendment Bill, taking into account the realities faced by citizens who continue to suffer while aiming for a better future. Our focus must be on safeguarding the rights of South Africans first, ensuring that no one is left behind in the journey of our democracy.

Thank you for your attention to this critical matter.

Sincerely,
Pearl C