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ANCYL Warns of Dual Loyalties After Citizenship Act Declared Unconstitutional

Published

4 months ago

May 7, 2025

zaghrah

The African National Congress Youth League (ANCYL) has voiced strong concerns following a Constitutional Court ruling this week that declared Section 6(1)(a) of the South African Citizenship Act unconstitutional.

Previously, the law automatically revoked South African citizenship from individuals who voluntarily acquired foreign citizenship—unless they had applied to retain it in advance. Now, the country’s highest court has ruled this provision invalid, sparking a national debate around loyalty, identity, and the meaning of citizenship.

Citizenship: More Than a Status

In response to the ruling, ANCYL Secretary General Mntuwoxolo Ngudle said citizenship must be more than just paperwork—it should represent a commitment to the country and its people.

“We are deeply concerned that this ruling opens the door to dual loyalties at a time when our country needs focused, active citizens committed to building a united, non-racial, and just South Africa,” said Ngudle.

He warned that the decision could lead to a situation where some individuals enjoy the benefits of being South African while pledging allegiance to other countries, potentially undermining national unity and progress.

Criticism of the DA

Ngudle also took aim at the Democratic Alliance (DA), accusing the party of prioritizing the interests of foreign and elite groups over national development.

“Their actions once again expose who they are working for: those who exploit our laws to escape accountability and avoid real contribution to our national development,” he said.

Call for Youth Engagement and National Dialogue

The Youth League is now calling on young South Africans to take part in the ongoing constitutional review process, using official Parliamentary platforms to shape the future of the country’s legal framework.

“This is an opportunity for the youth to raise their voices on matters that affect their future,” Ngudle added, urging widespread participation.

The ANCYL also emphasized the need for a broader national conversation about what it means to be a citizen in post-apartheid South Africa.

“We cannot allow our laws to be hijacked by those with dual passports and divided interests, who run to South Africa when it’s convenient and abandon it when it’s time to contribute meaningfully,” Ngudle stressed.

Defending National Identity

As the country faces deep socio-economic challenges, the ANCYL believes now is the time to reaffirm the value of citizenship and ensure that it is tied to genuine commitment, responsibility, and participation in building South Africa’s future.