Staff Incompetence and ********* Behaviour

I am writing to formally lodge a complaint regarding the ill-treatment and poor service I experienced at the Umgeni Home Affairs Office under the management of Mr Mbongeni Magagula.

Sequence of events: On 21 April 2026, I visited the Umgeni Home Affairs Office to submit my divorce decree. I was assisted by Ms T. Mkhize. My documents were forwarded to Supervisor Gugu, who then instructed Ms Mkhize to contact me and request a re-submission, claiming the documents were inadequate. This was contrary to my attorney’s confirmation that the correct documents had been provided.

On 23 April 2026, I personally returned to re-submit the documents. I was treated with disrespect by Supervisor Gugu, who made me wait for approximately one hour while she was in her office eating with a gentleman. When I requested to see the Manager, Mr Magagula, he escorted me to the Supervisor’s office. In Mr Magagula’s presence, the Supervisor claimed my document lacked a “Final Divorce Order” and dismissed me without assistance.

My attorney subsequently contacted the Durban Magistrate’s Court, who confirmed that no Final Divorce Order is required where the divorce was concluded in the Magistrate’s Court. A Final Divorce Order is only required for divorces concluded in the High Court.

Concerns: 1. The Supervisor provided incorrect legal information, causing unnecessary delay and inconvenience. 2. I was subjected to unprofessional and disrespectful treatment. 3. There appears to be a lack of training and accountability under Mr Magagula’s management.

Resolution sought: I respectfully request that this matter be investigated and that appropriate disciplinary or corrective action be taken against the staff involved. I further request written confirmation of the outcome of this investigation and clarity on the correct procedure for submitting a divorce decree from the Magistrate’s Court.

I trust that the Department will treat this matter with the urgency and seriousness it deserves.