There is a curious case before the High Court, challenging the constitutionality of the Citizenship Act.
It has come to light that some expatriates have lost their South African citizenship after taking citizenship of host countries.
The gripe of those who have taken the matter to court is that those whose citizenship was expunged were not informed – despite the fact that the Act is explicit on the matter.
Whether challenging the Act has merit or not is not what is at issue here. The courts will determine that.
This case has many levels that should concern ordinary South Africans.
For starters, looking for greener pastures cannot and should not be denied anyone.
Those who ply their trade in foreign countries include nurses, teachers, doctors and engineers.
That these are critical skills is glaring and most worrisome, especially because the country is going through a rough patch at the moment.
Being a bona fide citizen of a country has certain rights and obligations. One’s allegiance to the country of one’s birth supersedes anything.
Citizens have an unwritten obligation to serve their country, and to protect its sovereignty and integrity.
If there was any moment in history where we need all hands on deck, it is now.
Let’s face it, South Africa has produced some of the best minds in many areas such as medicine and science. South Africans are innovative.
From heart transplants to space technology and green technology – the country’s people continue to make their mark.
To sustain this positive trajectory, the country offers bursaries to young people with the hope that they become much-needed assets to the country.
It is in this context that we should view the case before the High Court.
Perhaps we should ask what the rationale is of having dual citizenship.
At face value this looks diabolical, especially at a time when the country needs the skills of people who leave the country.
Many commentators have bemoaned the brain drain we experience. Others go as far as accusing those who leave, of a lack of patriotism.
At the centre of this is that some of us do not see what role we can play in the country post-independence.
There is something else that the case highlights – the hold that the country has on those who were born here and those who visit our shores.
There are plenty of examples of people who, after turning their backs on their country, yearn to return.
Forget about the lovely weather and beautiful beaches, there is much more appealing about the country – its people.
South Africa has the warmest and the most accommodating people in the world.
It is for this reason that the ties that bind us to our motherland are strong.
Despite all our problems, this country has soul and that cannot be taken away or be ignored.
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