By: Sibongakonke Conco
A dignified but determined march rushed through parts of Pretoria on Monday as members of Hands-Off Basotho and Basotho nationals made their way to the Lesotho High Commission, demanding for rapid intervention on passport and work permit challenges.
Protesters mentioned delays and difficulties in accessing proper documentation have exposed many Basotho nationals leaving them vulnerable, unemployed, and unable to regularise their stay in South Africa. For many, the challenge is not just administrative but survival.
President of Hands-Off Basotho, Justice Simenyane Dinale addressed the crowd, emphasising the urgency of the matter: " We are here today because the Basotho embassy is not looking after the people of basotho in this country as they always face challenges, but the embassy does not do anything."
Among the marchers was Maiineo Kwetle, a woman in her 30s who has been in the country for four years. She explained the daily uncertainty of living without proper documents.
"I am from Lesotho without a passport, because as Basotho our government failed to take us seriously by not issuing passports for us as their citizens, so all I am asking is for the South African government to shelter us until some of us we are able to secure papers.
Mpho Tukisi, a man in his late 40s, echoed the same frustrations, highlighting the long waiting periods and lack of clear communication from superiors. "We just want a fair process, some of us have waited for years with no answers," he said.
The protest remained peaceful throughout, with a visible police presence ensuring order as marchers voiced their grievances. Roads in the area were temporary disruptions, but traffic was redirected as advised.
At its centre, the march showed a broader struggle faced by many foreign nationals navigating different immigration systems while trying to build stable lives. As the memorandum now sits with the Lesotho High Commission, the big question remains- will these voices lead to real change, or will the frustrations of the Basotho community go on unheard?
No comments:
Post a Comment