IOL News reports that trade union Solidarity is preparing for possible legal action against the City of Johannesburg after its eye-catching campaign banners were unceremoniously removed by municipal authorities. But, the union said it had followed all the necessary procedures through an advertising agency.
The large-scale banners with "Welcome to the most race-regulated country in the world" appeared along the M1 South between Smit Street and Empire Road. Solidarity said its campaign was designed to coincide with the high-profile G20 summit, aiming to leverage the global spotlight on SA to highlight issues of racial injustice, economic decline, and governance failures. However, the campaign sparked controversy and drew sharp criticism from government officials.
On Monday, Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi wrote on X accusing the creators of the banners of seeking to undermine efforts for transformation towards an inclusive society that acknowledged the injustices of apartheid. In response, Solidarity spokesperson Pieter Jordaan said that the municipality's actions were unlawful and indicative of a desire to suppress messages that criticised the government. "All indications are that the vandalism and removal of the board were unlawful ... It appears that the City council itself is the criminal party that removed and damaged Solidarity’s banner. It is clear that they did not want the message to be seen," said Jordaan.
- Read the full original of the report in the above regard by Sinenhlanhla Masilela at IOL News
- Read too, Solidarity threatens legal action over removal of highway advert in Joburg, at News24 (subscription / trial registration required)
- En ook, Metro verwyder Solidariteit se veldtogbord, by Maroela Media
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