South Africa's Chief Justice Mandisa Maya has denied claims of a super injunction against investigative organization Open Secrets, confirming the matter was heard in open court. The order, granted in an urgent application by armoured vehicle company Integrated Convoy Protection, temporarily prevents Open Secrets from publishing an article. The case highlights tensions between corporate interests and freedom of expression.
On 5 November 2025, Integrated Convoy Protection (Pty) Ltd brought an urgent application against Open Secrets (RF) NPC in the Western Cape Division of the High Court. The case was heard before Acting Judge Gavin Cooper, who was on urgent duty. Open Secrets was represented by attorney Tina Power from Power Law, and the hearing took place in open court with several attendees present.
The court postponed the matter to 18 November 2025, but this date was later adjusted to 28 November, requiring confirmation with Acting Deputy Judge President Nathan Erasmus due to the need for special judge allocation. In the interim, the judge granted temporary relief, including a timetable for filing papers and provisions for service via WhatsApp. A key part of the order interdicted Open Secrets from publishing its article or disclosing details of the application and order, directing confidentiality to the parties. Parties were also barred from using the court's electronic CaseLines system.
The Office of the Chief Justice (OCJ), responding to Open Secrets' allegations of a 'super injunction'—a UK-style order barring even reporting on its existence—clarified that no such measure was imposed. Chief Justice Mandisa Maya expressed disturbance over the claims but confirmed the proceedings were transparent. The OCJ described the interim order as a 'standard and proportionate measure' to preserve the status quo, emphasizing it expressed no view on the merits and allowed both sides to present arguments fully.
Open Secrets' Hennie van Vuuren acknowledged the OCJ statement but noted paragraph 6 of the order still restricted further comment. 'Open Secrets maintains that as the respondent, it is unable to provide further information on this matter at this stage,' he said. 'We will provide further information when we are able to. Open Secrets will continue the struggle for truth and justice.'
Integrated Convoy Protection, a Pretoria-based armoured vehicle manufacturer trading as Reva Armoured Personnel Carriers, exports to countries including Iraq, UAE, and Nigeria. Its directors include Nadine Rynners (Rorich) and Burger Johannes Vorster. The company bid on a 2024 tender for South African border patrol vehicles. Investigative outlet amaBhungane has applied to join as amicus curiae, underscoring implications for press freedom.