Phil Craig, advocate for Cape Independence, has responded to a wave of criticism over his recent citizenship application amid calls for his deportation.

In a statement on Thursday, Craig addressed articles and comments calling for his removal, asserting his dedication to improving lives of Western Cape residents without engaging in personal disputes.

In a letter, ActionSA Parliamentary Chief Whip, Lerato Ngobeni urged Minister of Home Affairs, Dr. Leon Schrieber, to deny Craig citizenship application.

This application comes on the heels of Craig ongoing campaign for the Western Cape to secede from South Africa, which has incited strong reactions from ActionSA.

Ngobeni’s letter to Minister Schrieber outlined her position, claiming Craig does not meet the standards of the South African Citizenship Act, particularly regarding his character and intentions toward residency in the country.

“Any individual advocating for Western Cape secession and undermining unity of our Republic cannot be seen as a person of good character,” Ngobeni declared, adding Craig push for secession indicates clear lack of desire to reside within South Africa.

ActionSA has threatened legal action if Craig citizenship application is approved, arguing  granting him citizenship would further divide South Africans.

In response, Craig emphasised his immigration status should not detract from the collective fight for Cape Independence.

He confirmed he is a British citizen, a fact that has been publicly known since he began his advocacy in 2020.

Highlighting the unique political landscape of the Western Cape, Craig noted majority of voters in the province have never supported national government.

He advocated for the right to self-determination, a principle entrenched in both international law and the South African Constitution, asserting Western Cape people deserve more control over their governance.

Craig also pointed out reluctance of some political factions to acknowledge self-determination rights of minority groups like those in the Western Cape.

He called on Premier Alan Winde to facilitate referendum, allowing the province’s  residents express their democratic choices regarding independence directly.

Reiterating his commitment to the cause, Craig stated questions surrounding Cape Independence can only be resolved through democratic referendum.