Protest looms after golf club bans Palestinian flag display.
Image: INSTAGRAM
The ANC has planned to picket at the Houghton Golf Club on Friday after a man displaying a Palestinian flag on his vehicle was ordered to leave. The club deemed the act discriminatory.
ANC Gauteng regional secretary Sasabona Manganye condemned the move, describing it as discriminatory and unconstitutional.
"This picket is part of our broader campaign to defend the constitutional rights, freedom of expression, and our unwavering solidarity to the people of Palestine. It sends a message that apartheid-style gatekeeping and political censorship will not be tolerated in our city," he said.
Speaking to IOL, Louis Seeco, who was ordered to leave, said his motives were driven by his conscience rather than confrontation.
"I wish to state clearly and without ambiguity: the genocide and extermination of the people of Palestine must stop. My intention has never been to provoke or disrupt, but rather to express, in a lawful and non-confrontational manner... It is deeply painful to witness images of children wandering through rubble in search of food and water," he said.
Seeco said that he had entered the club without issue on the day in question, stating that his identification was checked and he proceeded to play his round of golf before being approached after completion by management over the flag.
The matter was handled calmly, he said, and he defended his position as a personal expression.
In a post on social media, the golf club said: "To protect that shared space, the Club does not allow political or religious flags or symbols on Club property. This is not about taking sides, but about ensuring that no member, guest or staff member feels excluded, confronted or offended."
The club's general manager, James Loughnane, said the club was proudly diverse and inclusive.
"The club does not promote, endorse, or take positions on political or religious causes," he said.
He added that the policy was designed to protect the environment and applied across the board.
"We appreciate your understanding and cooperation in helping to maintain a neutral, welcoming, and harmonious atmosphere for all who enjoy the club."
Professor Usuf Chikte weighed in, accusing the institution of unconstitutional conduct and political bias.
"They are blind to their own political prejudices. This is a breach of our freedom of speech, expression, association, and assembly, dictating what we can wear and how we can wear it and when we can wear it," he said.
He added that similar matters have previously been adjudicated by the courts, which have consistently found that such conduct runs against the principles and spirit of the Constitution and the Bill of Rights.
"It should be condemned, and they must acquaint themselves to the new Constitution and please abide by it," said Chikte.