Further to my letters of 24th March 2020, I am directed to inform you that all of the appeals previously listed for April will now be heard during the July session of the Court of appeal, together with others.
In view of the ongoing State of Emergency arising from the COVID-19 pandemic it appears unlikely that outside Counsel (or visiting Justices) will be able to be present for the session. Accordingly, where South African Counsel were (or were intended to be) briefed, they should be instructed to prepare comprehensive Heads of Argument, which may be presented by a local Practitioner. Unavailability of Counsel due to travel restrictions will not therefore serve as a valid ground for postponement. In all cases full Heads should timeously be filed, in order to minimize, viva voce argument.
Further details regarding the July 2020 Session, together with the Roll will be delivered (together with additional files if any) as soon as these have been finalized.
Thank you and keep safe.
[Signed]
Chipo Gaobatwe
For/REGISTRAR & MASTER
