Controversial celebrity author Jackie Phamotse has written an open letter criticising President Cyril Ramaphosa following government’s decision to lax visa requirements for Nigerian tourists and businessmen entering South Africa.
The president announced that, as part of efforts to get more investors into the country, qualifying Nigerian business people will be granted a five year multiple entry visa while tourists from Nigeria will be able to apply for a visa without even submitting a passport.
Following the statement, the president and government faced online backlash from netizens and celebrities.
In her letter, available on X, Phamotse expressed concern on the safety and security of women and children in the country as a result of relaxed border control measures.
Dear Mr. President. @CyrilRamaphosa May you find this Plea fit for your urgent attention.
Regards.
J.P pic.twitter.com/G1ZpolJ9wi
“I'm writing to express my deep concern about the growing threat of human trafficking, gender-based violence (GBV), and other violent crimes in our country.
“Your recent statement allowing Nigerians to travel to South Africa with ease has sparked fear among many citizens, who worry that this will open the floodgates for criminals to enter and operate freely,” said the author.
Phamotse also criticised the president for calling for more Nigerian products to be on South Africa’s shelves when the country faces high unemployment and poverty.
“Furthermore, it's heart-breaking to see that our Constitutional rights are not being protected, and our communities continue to suffer from poverty and unemployment.
“The lack of job opportunities and the feeling of being ignored by the government have eroded our faith in your leadership. What are you really doing for the youth?
“You have suggested that more Nigerian products be placed on our shelves, yet our own entrepreneurs struggle to get these opportunities? Have you seen what's happening with Drip,” asked Phamotse.
She also urged the president to reconsider his decision and prioritize the safety and well-being of South African citizens.
Following public outcry, The Presidency issued a statement seeking to clarify the president’s statement on simplified visa processes for Nigerian visitors.
STATEMENT ON SIMPLIFIED VISA PROCESS FOR NIGERIAN VISITORS
The Presidency wishes to clarify a misunderstanding that appears to have arisen from President Cyril Ramaphosa’s opening remarks at the SA-Nigeria Bi-National Commission yesterday (03 December 2024) about the simplified…
“As part of the work underway to modernise and streamline visa application processes worldwide, South African missions in Nigeria have improved the efficiency and convenience of applying for a visa.
“This is part of the visa reforms initiated by the South African government to enable economic activities and boost tourism while protecting our national security.
“The modernisation of the visa application process does not compromise the integrity of the visa system,” said the presidency.
It also said that prospective travellers can apply for their visas without submitting their passports along with their applications – at the time of application, they are only required to submit certified copies of the biopage of their passports, and their actual passports should also be availed during the application process for verification and confirmation.
“Once a visa has been approved, they are required to submit their passports for the process to be completed and for the visa to be affixed in the passport.
“These changes have improved the customer experience while ensuring the security and integrity of the overall visa application process,” said the presidency.