RESISTANCE: because if we fight we might lose but if we don't fight we have already lost.

THANK YOU to everyone who has signed and shared the petition and to the media who have picked up on the story. The powers that be are now fully aware of the attempt to QUIETLY close Skukuza Regional Court.

From Landé Willemse's article in the Lowvelder this morning: Chrispin Phiri, spokesman for the justice ministry, said they had no knowledge of the decision, and expected full disclosure.

“We have made the minister aware of this motion of closing down the court and had put a temporary stop on the closing of Skukuza Court until we can get behind the reasons why the decision was made.”

Phiri said they understood how important this court is.

The judge president of Mpumalanga, Judge Francis Legodi, said he had started an investigation into the matter.“The issue of closure of Skukuza Court has been brought to my attention and I am presently consulting with relevant stakeholders concerning the alleged closure of the court. I may mention it has always been my view that courts must be brought closer to the victims of crime for obvious reasons, and this is still my view, which has been made clear to relevant stakeholders in the past.

“For this, I would still prefer Skukuza Court to continue to operate in Skukuza. However, a final decision in this regard will be taken once I have consulted with other stakeholders.”

Ike Phaahla, spokesman for SANParks, said they were investigating. “We have heard of the rumour and are working closely with the judge president to investigate the matter.”

A temporary stop to the closing of the court is a significant step in the right direction, and gives us time to keep collecting signatures. The court is obliged to take public sentiment into account, so LETS KEEP GOING!!!