Court postpones case between City of Joburg and informal traders

By Mark Ogagan

The High Court in Johannesburg has postponed the battle between the City of Johannesburg and the informal traders group, represented by the Socio-Economic Rights Institute (SERI), to Monday.

While enforcing bylaws, the Joburg metro recently booted the traders off the streets in the inner city.

Outside the court, hundreds of protesters filled the streets. The protesters are divided in their support.

On one side, informal traders – backed by the EFF and the Socio-Economic Rights Institute – are calling for an end to the evictions that have destroyed livelihoods.

On the other hand, supporters of the City – including the ANC, ActionSA and groups like Operation Dudula and March and March – insist that Johannesburg must clean up its streets and restore order.

Johannesburg Mayor Dada Morero addressed supporters outside court on Friday.