Maroela Media reports that the legal battle over Solidarity’s controversial advertising banner will be heard in court this week, but without Gauteng premier Panyaza Lesufi.

According to the trade union, Lesufi will not oppose its urgent court application and will accept the ruling. But, the Johannesburg Metro and the Joburg Metro Police Department (JMPD) have given formal notice that they will oppose Solidarity’s application. The case is expected to be heard in the South Gauteng High Court on Tuesday (18 November). Solidarity filed the complaint after the JMPD summarily removed a large advertising banner – with the words “Welcome to the most race-regulated country in the world” – on 10 November. The banner was part of the union’s awareness campaign over race legislation during the G20 summit.

According to Solidarity, a recognised advertising agency was used and all requirements were met to legally design, erect and display the banner. In its court documents, Solidarity argues that the action is contrary to the metro’s own bylaws and contrary to the principles of fair administrative justice. Dr. Dirk Hermann, CEO of Solidarity, believes the banner removal is symbolic of a government that wants to stifle criticism. The union will be asking the court to declare that the removal was unlawful and to order the city to immediately restore the banner to the same place – or to return it to Solidarity free of charge.

Read the full original of the Afrikaans report in the above regard by Heléne Mocke at Maroela Media

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