ATM warns SA govt to brace for influx of refugees fleeing turmoil in Mozambique

JOHANNESBURG - The African Transformation Movement (ATM) has called on the South African government to prepare for an influx of refugees fleeing the turmoil in Mozambique. 

The party said South Africa must develop a swift response to the developing crisis in the neighbouring country. 

Mozambique's Constitutional Council on Monday confirmed the electoral outcome from the October elections and validated Frelimo as the winner, and Daniel Chapo as president. 

This has led to widespread protests in the country amid allegations of vote rigging and electoral fraud. 

ALSO READ: 

• Mozambique unrest: DA wants safety of South Africans prioritised
• Mozambique post-election violence kills 125 in three days: NGO

In 2009, the South African government introduced the Zimbabwean Exemption Permit (ZEP) to cope with an influx of documented Zimbabwean nationals fleeing the political and economic turmoil in the country.

The ZEP allows its holders and their children temporary legal status to live, work and study in South Africa. 

Now, amid the increasing upheaval in Mozambique, the ATM has called on the Government of National Unity to develop a new response to minimise the impact of Mozambique's political crisis on South Africa.

"We urge the establishment of temporary stations along the South African Mozambican border, ready to assist Mozambicans seeking refuge from the violence. These stations should be equipped to register and accommodate those fleeing the unrest, ensuring that they receive the necessary support during this tumultuous time, with the army, police, and border control enhancing security efforts at the border," explained the ATM's spokesperson - Zama Ntshona.

The ATM party believes that the current socio-economic challenges South Africa faces warrant effective and proactive planning to prevent further destabilisation in the country.