Insensible instruction to sign a document for policy as condition to collect a replacement credit card

Received a SMS inviting me to collect my expired credit card at Stanger branch, with an instruction to bring along my ID and proof of residence.

Guess what a consultant took my ID while on the queue, then ordered me to follow her to her desk. Told me to sign a document forcing me to take a credit protection plan she claimed was compulsory.

It doesn’t make sense to me. This plan has always been there while I’ve had this account for years. Today I’m told it’s compulsory to take the plan in question. Since when? Why was I not told before wasting my time going to the branch? Is it fair to force insurance policies down on clients’ throats like this?

The bank has all my contact details. Is it too much for the bank to simply drop the client an email and explain this, rather than keeping it a surprise for card collection?

Is this how Standard bank closes accounts?