Home Affairs clean-up deepens as dismissed officials reach 63

Pretoria – The Department of Home Affairs has dismissed seven additional officials following the conclusion of disciplinary processes linked to misconduct cases, Minister Dr Leon Schreiber confirmed on Friday.

In a statement, the department also said 16 more officials have been suspended as disciplinary action continues, including cases stemming from findings in an interim report by the Special Investigating Unit (SIU).

The latest dismissals bring the total number of officials removed since the formation of the Government of National Unity (GNU) in July 2024 to 63.

According to the department, the action forms part of a broader effort to tackle corruption, maladministration and unethical conduct in collaboration with the SIU and law enforcement agencies.

Since July 2024, Home Affairs has initiated 95 misconduct cases, of which 75 have already been finalised.

Minister Leon Schreiber has confirmed that the Department of Home Affairs has intensified its crackdown on misconduct, dismissing a further seven officials with immediate effect after the conclusion of disciplinary processes.

In addition, 16 officials have been suspended as…

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Schreiber said the department is intensifying its efforts to enforce accountability and clean up operations.

“These efforts are yielding measurable progress in restoring integrity to Home Affairs operations,” Schreiber said.

He added: “The decisive pace at which the department now processes disciplinary matters, resulting in ongoing dismissals and other disciplinary action, demonstrates our unwavering commitment to cleaning up the damage done to Home Affairs over many years.”

Schreiber further emphasised that the department’s approach goes beyond rhetoric.

“Our zero-tolerance approach does not rely on words – it is demonstrated by ongoing concrete action to rebuild the rule of law in a department that is fundamental to the functioning of our society,” he said.

He said the department would continue to support ethical staff while acting firmly against wrongdoing.

“We will continue to empower and reward the many officials in Home Affairs who are working diligently to implement our digital transformation agenda to deliver dignity for all, while dealing decisively and immediately with anyone found guilty of corruption, fraud or misconduct,” Schreiber said.