Parliament, Saturday, 23 May 2020 – The Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Home Affairs, Advocate Bongani Bongo, welcomes the announcement by the Minister of Home Affairs that approval has been granted for essential travel for South Africans who want to return to countries where they are based.
“During a committee meeting that took place on 8 May 2020, the Minister told the committee that the National Coronavirus Command Council (NCCC) was considering the matter, and would reach a decision soon. We are therefore grateful that a decision to allow specific South Africans to travel. Furthermore, the decision is welcomed especially in the context of the need to protect people’s livelihoods,” Adv Bongo emphasised.
South Africans who wish to leave the Republic are permitted to depart only for the following reasons:
- Work
- Study
- Family reunion
- Take up permanent residency
- Receive medical attention
According to Adv Bongo, the decision by the NCCC is reflective of a listening administration that has the best interests of its citizens at heart notwithstanding the challenge brought about by the coronavirus pandemic. Adv Bongo has encouraged those who fall under the permitted groups to take up the opportunity presented.
ISSUED BY THE PARLIAMENTARY COMMUNICATION SERVICES ON BEHALF OF THE CHAIRPERSON OF THE PORTFOLIO COMMITTEE ON HOME AFFAIRS, ADVOCATE BONGANI BONGO
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Name: Malatswa Molepo (Mr)
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