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Court Orders South African Authorities to Secure Clinics From Xenophobic Blockades

The ruling sets concrete duties for health authorities, the city, the police, with compliance reports due within ten court days.

Overview

  • An interim order by the Gauteng High Court directs national, provincial and municipal health officials plus SAPS to ensure safe, unhindered access to the Yeoville and Rosettenville clinics.
  • Officials must station adequate trained security at clinic entrances, remove unauthorised obstructers from premises and surrounds, and report all incidents to police.
  • Respondents are required to file a detailed report within ten court days outlining actions taken to comply with the order.
  • Judge Stuart Wilson criticised the state's weak response to Operation Dudula’s clinic disruptions and allowed applicants to return for further enforcement and broader final relief if needed.
  • TAC, MSF and Kopanang welcomed the judgment after documenting persistent pickets that continued despite a separate November order barring Operation Dudula’s unlawful blockages.