LFN vs President of South Africa & Others (Equality Court, Pretoria – Case No. 2023-068694) – Initiated: 13 July 2023 – Lodged: 13 July 2022
Last Updated: 25 September 2025 (Previous Version: 13 July 2023)
On 13 July 2023, Liberty Fighters Network (LFN) lodged a formal Equality Court complaint against the President of the Republic of South Africa, the Minister of Police, and the National Police Commissioner. The complaint challenges the practice of exclusive VIP protection for politicians and so-called “VIPs”, arguing that it discriminates against the public and constitutes harassment by denying equal protection under the law.
Relief sought
LFN asks the court to:
- Declare VIP-only protection unlawful and discriminatory.
- Disband VIP protection units (or grant other just and equitable relief) so that police resources are returned to serve all South Africans equally.
Procedural history
- July 2023 – Complaint issued by the Registrar.
- 2023–2024 – No progress; the case was stalled by the court’s own administrative delays.
- Nov 2024 – A directive from the Deputy Judge President ordered re-service of the papers.
- Aug 2025 – LFN formally recorded the court’s failure to act for over two years.
- Sept 2025 – The State Attorney confirmed opposition on behalf of the Presidency and Minister of Police, with papers due 20 October 2025. The matter will then be placed before a judge under Regulation 6(4).
Why this case matters
VIP convoys — commonly called the “blue-light brigades” — have long been criticised as a nuisance and a threat to ordinary citizens. In 2023, VIP officers assigned to the Deputy President assaulted soldiers travelling in a private vehicle, proving that abuse of power is real and dangerous.
LFN’s case speaks for every South African forced off the road, harassed by blue lights, or left without community policing while resources are diverted to protect elites. Equality before the law means protection for all — not just for politicians.
Download the Court Referral hereunder…