By Abiola Olawale
The recent announcement by South African President Cyril Ramaphosa regarding a streamlined reciprocal visa process for Nigerian nationals and South Africans has ignited a significant wave of backlash among South African citizens.
Ramaphosa’s decision has led to many expressing their discontent on social media platforms, with calls for the South African president’s resignation gaining momentum.
The New Diplomat reports that the South African President during the 11th Session of the South Africa-Nigeria Bi-National Commission held in Cape Town on December 3, had announced that Nigerian tourists and business travellers can now benefit from relaxed visa requirements.
According to Ramaphosa, the initiative.was intended to enhance economic collaboration and stimulate tourism.
However, the announcement has drawn sharp criticism from certain quarters in South Africa, with many raising concerns about the sensitive nature of immigration policies.
Critics have called for the reversal of the decision, accusing the government of prioritising certain issues over domestic concerns.
In a recent press conference held in Johannesburg, Fikile Mbalula, the National Secretary of the ruling African National Congress (ANC), vehemently defended the government’s position against critics.
According to him, the criticisms seemed to be deliberately targeting the President, suggesting a clear agenda of misinterpretation behind their claims.
Mbalula elaborated on what he described as a significant misunderstanding regarding the newly announced deal. He clarified that the agreement does not suggest that Nigerians would be permitted to travel to South Africa without the necessary passport documentation.
He said the deal was to ease trade relations between the two countries.
He said: “We dismiss the so-called national shutdown as nothing more than a failed attempt to sow chaos. The ANC remains resolute in defending South Africa’s sovereignty, uplifting its people, and ensuring that our country is a home for all who respect its laws and contribute positively to its growth.”
