The federation represents over one thousand Zimbabwean nationals who hold the Zimbabwean Exemption Permit (ZEP).

The court’s decision upholds a June 2023 judgment by the Pretoria High Court, which issued an interim interdict preventing the detention or deportation of ZEP holders. The ruling provides continued protection for permit holders while legal and policy processes concerning the future of the ZEP are underway.

The matter stems from a challenge brought by the Helen Suzman Foundation, which succeeded in having the previous decision to terminate the ZEP set aside.

As a result, the future of the permit now rests with the current Minister of Home Affairs, who has been instructed by the Gauteng High Court to conduct proper consultations with affected individuals and relevant stakeholders.

The ZEP remains valid until November 28 2025 to allow the Minister sufficient time to carry out this duty.

--SABC/ChannelAfrica--