In a significant development, the South African Union Council of Independent Churches (SAUCIC) has expressed its approval of the Pretoria High Court’s recent order suspending the closure of the Tshwane Market in Marabastad. This ruling, issued on July 31, 2025, has been lauded as a reprieve and a step towards conciliation among the parties involved in the ongoing legal dispute.
Cardinal Archbishop Dr. Modiri Patrick Shole, President of SAUCIC, emphasized the importance of finding amicable solutions to address the current impasse. “Marabastad holds a special place in the history of resistance against forced removals. It has withstood the oppressive efforts of the apartheid regime to dismantle the livelihoods of historically marginalized communities,” Dr Shole stated.
Highlighting the market’s economic significance, Dr Shole argued that closing this vital hub would be a travesty of justice, particularly given its support for traders from neighboring townships.
SAUCIC also acknowledged the progress made towards ensuring compliance with municipal bylaws to create a safer and more hygienic trading environment. The recent training of 49 food handlers by the City of Tshwane, alongside the issuance of zoning rights for operations at the Tshwane Fresh Produce Market, reflects the municipality’s commitment to formalizing these traders and fostering sustainable business practices.
Dr Shole urged for continued collaboration to enforce compliance and eliminate unethical business practices that threaten health and safety standards. He also emphasized the importance of the shared cultural and historical bonds among the Indian, Coloured, and African communities in Marabastad, viewing them as catalysts for unity, nation-building, and urban renewal.
He said the SAUCIC remains hopeful that this court ruling will pave the way for constructive dialogue and cooperation, ensuring that Marabastad continues to thrive as a multicultural economic center.
