Does anybody have any information on applying for South African permanent residence?

Hi, I am a British citizen that wants to apply for permanent residence in South Africa. I moved to South Africa in January 2009 with my partner who is a SA citizen (now wife). I obtained a life partner permit that was valid for three years in March 2009. We got married in January 2012 and I obtained a spousal permit that permitted me to reside in SA until 31st December 2014. I returned alone to the UK on the same day my permit expired. I am now trying to get a new spousal permit and also apply for permanent residence. My wife and I have been together for over 11 years (married for 3) and previously lived in the UK. From what I understand this should be adequate to apply. I need to try and apply for permanent residency and get some stability back in my life. Unfortunately my previous permits have not allowed me to work because I didn't have a job offer when I was applying for them and due to changes in the UK in 2012 my wife is unable to join me in the UK because I am unable to satisfy the Home Office's new UK family migration laws. I understand that I need to submit representation to the minister of Home Affairs to be declared a desirable person before I make my application - does anybody know how I do this? At present I am in the UK and have to fly back to South Africa in a few days because I need to get a Police Clearance Certificate for a new spousal permit application that I have to lodge later this year at South Africa House in London. This whole thing is an absolute minefield and I can't afford to employ the services of specialist visa companies. It has taken me three months just to save the airfare back to SA again. Any help or advise by knowledgeable people would be greatly appreciated. :)