The #BopheloHouse94 community health workers have been on trial since April 2014. Their crime? Holding a peaceful night vigil in the hope that their political leaders will explain why they had all been dismissed.

The #BopheloHouse94 community health workers have been on trial since April 2014. Their crime? Holding a peaceful night vigil in the hope that their political leaders will explain why they had all been dismissed. The group was convicted in October 2015 for violations of the archaic Regulation of Gatherings Act after being arrested during the vigil. The case has critical importance for the ability of all people in South Africa to safely exercise their constitutional right to protest.

The #BopheloHouse94 are CHWs from across the Free State. On 20 June, the appeal of the #BopheloHouse94 was postponed until August 8. The Judge ruled that both the appeal and the challenge on the constitutionality of that part of the Gathering Act would be heard together then.