LEGAL grievances against the South African Department of Home Affairs, including contempt of court cases, are depressingly common. Too frequently the minister has to apologise to a court, or to ask for more time, on behalf of the department. Most of the court cases involve the operations of the department regarding visas and permits for foreign visitors, immigrants and prospective refugees. Just a few months ago Home Affairs Minister Aaron Motsoaledi said, in legal papers: I would like to take this opportunity to extend my sincere apology to the Chief Justice, all judges of the high court and Constitutional Court,…