South African Supreme Court of Appeal rules on public display of the old flag

1 min read
south africa supreme court of appeal

The South African Supreme Court of Appeal has ruled that exhibiting the old South African flag in public is a form of hate speech, unfair discrimination based on race, and harassment following equality legislation. The decision comes after nationwide demonstrations by Afriforum, a group that played a leading role in the Black Monday protests highlighting the murders of farmers. The old flag was displayed during these demonstrations, prompting the Nelson Mandela Foundation Trust (NMFT) to file a complaint against Afriforum.

NMFT CEO testifies on the painful impact of old flag display

In his testimony, NMFT Chief Executive Officer, Sello Hatang, revealed that displaying the old flag brought back painful memories from his childhood. During an incident when he was ten years old, he was called the K-word by two white children, which was his first experience of being told that he was subhuman. Hatang stated that the flag represented the inhumane Apartheid system, and its display, even after the end of Apartheid, is a reminder that South Africans still view the black community as ‘other’ and reserve the right to strip them of their humanity.

Afriforum argues against the absolute ban but loses appeal

Afriforum argued against the ban, stating that flag displays do not serve any academic, artistic, or journalistic purpose and that an absolute ban would infringe on the right to free expression. The Equality Court still declared that flag displays constituted hate speech, harassment, and unfair discrimination, a decision upheld by the Supreme Court of Appeal. Justice Schippers found that Afriforum failed to make an appropriate argument against the ban’s implementation since the law did not infringe on the mentioned rights. Therefore, the court dismissed the appeal without charges because it concerned safeguarding fundamental freedoms.

Environmentalist and Outdoor Enthusiast. Amanda is a nature-loving, energetic, and enthusiastic environmentalist who has dedicated her life to exploring and protecting Cape Town's stunning natural landscapes. She is an experienced hiker, wildlife enthusiast, and advocate for sustainable tourism.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published.

Previous Story

Prince Albert to Host Inaugural Jazz Festival

Next Story

Norval Foundation Celebrates Fifth Anniversary with Festivities

Latest from Blog

On the Margins: The Pursuit of Dignity and Water in Cape Town’s Forgotten Communities

In Cape Town’s forgotten communities, people face harsh daily struggles without clean water, toilets, or basic services. Women carry heavy water containers long distances, and unsafe sanitation puts their safety and dignity at risk. Tired of empty promises, residents protest fiercely by blocking roads and burning tyres to be heard. Despite flooding, pollution, and official neglect, the community stays strong, sharing what little they have and demanding to be included in the city’s plans. Their fight is a powerful call for respect, safety, and the simple right to live with dignity.

Cape Town on the Horizon: South Africa’s Thrilling Cruise Season 2025–2026

Cape Town’s 2025–2026 cruise season promises exciting adventures on stylish ships like Sirena and Crystal Symphony. Travelers can enjoy fun themed cruises full of music, art, and local culture while exploring the stunning coastline with Table Mountain as a backdrop. The city’s lively waterfront buzzes with events, markets, and warm welcomes, making every cruise arrival feel like a grand celebration. With easy travel packages and ecofriendly ships, this season offers a perfect blend of luxury, discovery, and relaxation by the sea.

The Gathering Storms: Winter’s Challenge Approaches the Cape

The Cape is bracing for two strong winter storms bringing heavy rain, fierce winds up to 75 km/h, flooding, and even snow in the mountains. The wild weather will challenge roads, farms, and coastal communities, as people prepare to protect homes, livestock, and boats. Despite the danger, there’s a deep respect and shared spirit among locals who have weathered such storms for generations. These fierce cold fronts remind everyone of nature’s power and the strength of community in tough times.

South Africa’s Budget Tightrope: Tax Strategies, Fuel Levies, and the Cost of Policy Choices

South Africa’s budget faces tough challenges like high debt and slow growth, forcing the government to find smart ways to raise money without upsetting people too much. Instead of raising VAT, it leans on higher taxes on alcohol, tobacco, and fuel to bring in cash. These moves help fill the budget gap but also make life harder for many ordinary South Africans, who feel the pinch in daily costs. The government also uses “bracket creep,” quietly taxing more as incomes rise with inflation. Balancing the budget while keeping the country stable and fair is a delicate and ongoing struggle.

Reinventing Runway: How a Montagu Dress Redefined Sustainable Style in the Cape

A Montagu dress made from recycled plastic bags stunned the Cape’s runway, turning trash into a shining symbol of style and sustainability. Created by a creative mother and worn by a young model, the gown showed how everyday waste can become beautiful fashion with heart and purpose. This powerful dress sparked cheers and hope, proving that caring for the planet and looking amazing can go hand in hand. It was a bold reminder that with creativity and community, we can rethink waste and build a brighter, greener future.