Apartheid flag for sale: Cape Town motorists furious over N7 display

Several motorists have shared their anger online this week, after they spotted the old apartheid flag draped by the side of the N7 near Edgeware. The City of Cape Town has noted the incident, confirming that the item was up for sale.

Apartheid flag spotted on N7, Cape Town

In 2019, the Equality Court outlawed public displays of the apartheid flag under most circumstances. However, there were no specifications on whether it can be displayed for the purpose of a sale. The controversial ruling split opinion in South Africa, and has been something of a sore subject ever since.

Hi there, please report this to SAPS directly on 10111.

— City of Cape Town (@CityofCT) March 5, 2021

A tricky legal minefield

The old apartheid flag symbolises an era of racial segregation and societal hardships. Several public displays of the banned emblem have sparked controversy over the past two years – most notably during a farm murders protest in 2017.

Critics believe any display of the apartheid flag constitutes an act of hate speech – a position endorsed by the Equality Court. However, others feel that the prohibition is a serious infringement on freedom of speech laws in South Africa.

• – These are just some of the complaints raised about the display on the N7:

@CityofCT an apartheid flag has been hung up on the fence just outside of Summer Greens along the N7 side facing Edgemead. Who do l talk to, to have this taken down?

— Marhawu (@Aluwei) March 5, 2021

There's a man selling the old South African flag along the N7. Was driving so couldn't take a pic. And no, its not a white guy selling it. @CityofCT …not sure who to inform

— Wii5aal (@wii5aal) March 5, 2021

Hello, please report this to Law Enforcement on 021 480 7700 as they will need a first-hand explanation of what is happening.

— City of Cape Town (@CityofCT) March 5, 2021