Socio-Economic Rights Institute (SERI) of South Africa (SA) has taken the City of Johannesburg to the High Court over the removal of informal traders in parts of the city.
In recent weeks, the municipality has implemented a clean-up and by-law enforcement programme aimed at reclaiming public spaces. As part of the initiative, city officials introduced a new registration system to regulate more than 20 000 informal traders operating across Johannesburg.
The programme has involved the removal of unregistered traders operating without authorisation or outside designated areas. However, SERI’s Edward Molopi says many traders believe their rights are being infringed and that their ability to earn a living has been affected.
“Informal traders approached us to represent them in taking the matter to court,” Molopi said. “They believe their rights have been infringed and their ability to earn an income has been compromised. The case is now before the High Court.”
–ChannelAfrica–
