An interdict against members of the Bo-Kaap community, blocking them from interfering with Blok developers, has been withdrawn, notes the Cape Argus. The interdict, issued during increasing protests within the community, prohibited anyone from going near the development and cited violent acts committed by civic organisations as part of the reason for the interdict.

This led to residents seeking court intervention to defend their rights to access the area and protest. The interdict withdrawal came as a surprise to community members, who were issued with the letter by Blok attorneys, stating that the withdrawal was done in the spirit of 'de-escalation'.

'Blok understands that the Bo-Kaap community are not violent people but are passionate about their heritage and frustrated about the fact that, in their view, the city has been ignoring their requests to protect their heritage and the area of the Bo-Kaap. The interdict ordered was not against the broader community. The sole intention of the interdict application was to protect the innocent people on-site who were being targeted by the acts of violence,' read the statement.

It further said Blok was committed to continuing its engagement with representatives of the community to achieve a mutually acceptable, sustainable and peaceful solution to the situation. Bo-Kaap Civic and Ratepayers Association Osman Shabodien said the withdrawal of the statement was something the organisation would have to take back to the community to gauge their feelings.

Osman said the withdrawal could have legal implications regarding their case with the Human Rights Commission.

Full Cape Argus report