ATM calls for severe penalties for South Africans who sell IDs
The ATM is urging that South Africans who sell identity documents face life imprisonment without the possibility of parole.
The African Transformation Movement (ATM) is advocating for life sentences without parole for South Africans who collaborate with foreign nationals to sell identity documents.
The call comes as a South African was arrested alongside two foreign nationals for allegedly selling passports for R45 000 each and birth certificates for R1000.
WHY IS THE ATM CALLING FOR HARSH SENTENCES?
The ATM said such fraudulent activities undermine the integrity of the nation and the rule of law. The party also commended the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (Hawks) for their swift action in apprehending the suspects.
The fact that these individuals were willing to exploit our systems for personal gain is a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities within our borders and the need for stringent measures to protect our sovereignty,” the party said.
Further, the ATM called for the harshest possible sentence that will send out a clear message that fraudulent activities pertaining to identity documents and fraud will not be tolerated.
“Those who treat our country as a ‘banana republic’ must understand that their actions have consequences. We will not stand idly by while our nation is undermined by greed and corruption, whether from foreign nationals or South Africans who collude with them.
“Moreover, we demand life imprisonment without the possibility of parole for South Africans found guilty of selling fraudulent documents. Their actions compromise national security and constitute acts of treason against our country,” the party emphasised.
HOME AFFAIRS MINISTER URGED TO REVOKE CITIZENSHIP OF CAPE INDEPENDENCE LEADER
Recently, ATM leader leader Vuyo Zungula called on Home Affairs minister Leon Schreiber to revoke the citizenship of Cape Independence leader Phil Craig.
In his letter, Zungula said Craig’s call raises serious concerns regarding the potential fragmentation of South Africa, as Cape Independence would undermine the country’s unity and diversity, lead to economic instability, and potentially create new social and political tensions.
Zungula said the group’s emphasis on regional identity would have a detrimental impact and might even exacerbate racial tensions.
“Cape Independence would worsen the plight of black marginalised people in the region, further worsen poverty and inequality by stripping them of vital South African Constitutional protections and affirmative action measures,” the ATM leader said.