No Legal Objections to US Trip Raised by Government, says CIAG
The Cape Independence Advocacy Group (CIAG) confirms that neither the President, the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, nor the Western Cape Premier has raised any legal objections to the CIAG’s proposed trip to Washington to lobby for Cape Independence.
The CIAG wrote to all three on 17 March, giving notice of their intention to visit the US and inviting the national and provincial governments to raise any legal objections they might have within seven days.
While the President has made his personal displeasure at the trip known, he has tacitly conceded that the activities in which the CIAG is engaging are constitutionally protected.
On 24 March, in his weekly newsletter, the President stated, “The free flow of ideas and opinions is vital to democracy and to having a vibrant society. Even those with the most offensive views should know that in democratic South Africa, unlike many other parts of the world, our Constitution guarantees the right to freedom of expression, as long as it does not include incitement to violence or advocacy of racial or other hatred.”
‘Offensive’ is a highly subjective word. Offence at the policies and conduct of the President’s own party since the advent of the democratic era is a significant driver of support for Cape Independence.
The CIAG will now finalise its US arrangements, with its delegation due to arrive in the US within the next two weeks.
DATE: 25 March 2025
