The March and March movement has criticised the latest Durban High Court ruling restricting its demonstrations, arguing that the limitations undermine its constitutional right to peaceful assembly and threaten cultural identity.
Movement leader Jacinta Ngobese-Zuma has challenged the court’s restrictions on protesters carrying traditional sticks, arguing that they form part of African cultural identity and are not necessarily intended to intimidate or harm others.
Speaking following the ruling, Ngobese-Zuma questioned why police officers are permitted to carry weapons during demonstrations while protesters are prohibited from carrying sticks.
She argued that the restrictions risk imposing Western practices on African communities and called on authorities to engage with the movement over its concerns.
The Durban High Court granted an interim order allowing March and March to continue demonstrating under specific conditions. The order prohibits violence, intimidation, looting, property damage and the carrying of weapons, among other restrictions.
The court also ordered demonstrations to be suspended until after the local government elections, with protests permitted to resume from 7 November between designated hours and along approved routes.
The matter is expected to return to court on 18 January 2027, when arguments on a final order will be heard.
The interim ruling does not constitute a final finding of wrongdoing against March and March or its leadership. (SABC News)
