News in a minute | SA confirms citizenship of 49 Afrikaners [video]

Watch the full version of the “Are 49 Afrikaner ‘refugees’ still South African citizens?“ article – in a minute.

A group of 49 South African/Afrikaners “refugees” who recently resettled in the United States has sparked debate over their citizenship status.

According to immigration lawyer Chris Watters, these individuals cannot be deprived of their South African citizenship despite their decision to leave the country.

“By definition, they are fleeing because they cannot get protection from the South African government (or the government refuses to give them protection) regarding the [supposed] serious harm they face in South Africa,” Watters said to TimesLive. He added that this created a paradox.

LAWYER WEIGHS IN ON SOUTH AFRICAN REFUGEES

Watters pointed to a recent Constitutional Court ruling on dual citizenship, confirming that no South African may be deprived of citizenship. Minister of International Relations and Cooperation Ronald Lamola’s spokesperson, Chrispin Phiri, supports this view, confirming that Section 20 of the South African Constitution protects citizens from being deprived of citizenship.

WATCH MORE VIDEOS FROM THE SOUTH AFRICAN

Looking for quick updates?

Watch News in a Minute videos on The South African’s YouTube page for all the key stories you need to know!

Catch all the latest videos on news, lifestyle, travel, sports and more – there’s always something to watch!

Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and BlueSky to stay connected and get your news on the go!