High Court confirms status and effect of ZEP

7 November 2023

In a judgment handed down on 6 November 2023, the high court confirmed that the Zimbabwe Exemption Permit (ZEP) is valid and holders will continue to enjoy the protections currently afforded to them until June 2024.

In September 2023, HSF brought an application seeking the enforcement of the High Court’s interim order of June 2023 until the conclusion of all appeal processes. Specifically HSF asked for a declarator that the ZEP would remain valid and holders would continue to enjoy the protections currently afforded to them until all appeal processes had been exhausted.

HSF believed the Court’s pronouncement on the status and effect of the June 2023 order was required in the face of growing confusion amid shifting stances taken by the Department of Home Affairs as to the rights of ZEP holders as well as its obligations.

While HSF was not successful in obtaining an order enforcing the interim relief until all appeal processes are concluded, it welcomes the confirmation of the validity of the ZEP and protections afforded to permit holders until at least June 2024.

Issued by HSF, 7 November 2023