Passport Application for my minor son

Struggling to apply for a passport for my 15 year old son. Went to Bellville branch. They told me to they cannot continue unless they have consent from Dad. The Dad went to Johannesburg Department of Home Affairs. They said that they cant do anything unless its on system. Bellville Home Affairs refuse to let me complete the forms. Phoned the call centre in Johannesburg. But they cant do anything.