JP Balous, a leader of one of two factions representing foreign nationals who have taken refuge in Cape Town’s Central Methodist Church, spoke out against South Africa’s new refugee laws which came into effect on 1 January 2020.

The new states that asylum seekers can lose their asylum status if they take part in political activities in the country.

JP Balous was granted bail last week by the Cape Town Magistrates Court, after appearing on assault charges. One of his bail conditions was that he cannot enter the CBD without the consent of the investigation officer in his case.

Before addressing the refugees in the church, Baloul allegedly went to the Cape Town Police station to request permission to enter the church.