Incorrect messages have been propagated over the past few days regarding the reasons for the removal by the City of Johannesburg of a banner illegally erected by Solidarity or its agents along the M1 motorway in Johannesburg. The City reaffirms its constitutional obligation to uphold the rule of law and to ensure that all matters under its administration are managed in accordance with its by-laws, policies and other applicable legislation and regulations. Adherence to these prescripts is essential to the effective and orderly functioning of the City.

In terms of the Outdoor Advertising By-Laws, 2009, any party seeking to erect, install, or display an outdoor advertising sign on City-owned property must make an application and obtain formal approval from the City. No such application was submitted in relation to the banner in question. Instead, the banner was erected unlawfully, in direct contravention of the City’s by-laws. This is the sole reason for the banner’s removal by City officials, who acted strictly within their power and authority to enforce the law. The G20 had no bearing on the City’s decision, and any insinuation of bias or ulterior motive on the City’s actions is categorically rejected. The City simply cannot standby without acting to stop the flagrant disregard of its by-laws.