The Palestine Solidarity Campaign has asked the Western Cape High Court for leave to appeal a ruling that limits statements linking Cape Union Mart and its executive chairperson, Philip Krawitz, to Israel and the genocide in Gaza.

The PSC wants to the Supreme Court of Appeal to hear their submission. It follows a recent High Court judgment that barred claims that the retailer or its brands are associated with Israel or are funding genocide or military activity in Gaza. It also prohibited allegations that Krawitz is funding genocide, or the Israeli occupation military.

The PSC argues that the restrictions are overly broad and infringe on freedom of expression and the right to protest. It says the order could prevent even truthful and non-defamatory statements from being made.

The PSC further argues that not all respondents were proven to be responsible for all posters, chants and publications cited in the case.

The PSC says the appeal raises important questions about political boycott campaigns, defamation law and the limits of court-ordered protest restrictions.

The PSC’s Martin Jansen says that Cape Union Mart and Krawitz essentially used a “SLAPP suit” to silence pro-Palestine voices.