Disgruntled Joburg informal traders protesting outside court hope for victory

Some dissatisfied informal traders are continuing their protest outside the Gauteng High Court in Johannesburg as their legal battle with the city resumes today.

The City of Joburg and the Socio-Economic Rights Institute of South Africa (SERI) are facing off in court over the city’s decision to remove unauthorised informal traders.

Seri argues that the city has blatantly infringed on the traders’ rights to conduct business and earn a livelihood.

There have been two groups of protesters outside the Johannesburg High Court since last week.

ALSO READ: Informal traders fight for livelihoods as Joburg cracks down on CBD businesses

One group comprises informal traders who have been unable to earn a living for almost a month. This is while the other group is demonstrating in support of the City of Joburg, saying it’s high time the metro enforces its by-laws and cleans up the inner city.

Thokozani Ndlovu, an informal trader, said he is hopeful that the traders will win their case against the city.

"I pray to God that we must win this case. Even when I got out the house, I prayed we must go through. I would be very happy."

Meanwhile, inside the courtroom SERI and the City of Joburg continue their legal arguments.

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