The talk of the town festival, Lemo Fest, was under tremendous heat in recent events as the MEC of Community Safety, Roads and Transport has launched a court interdict against the Kenworth Group for allegedly illegally erecting the R50 million structure for the festival.
It is alleged that the aim of the interdict was for the group to be restrained and interdicted from hosting the Lemo Festival near the access and reserve roads popularly known as “Green Park”, near Lemo Mall. In court documents, it further stipulated that the festival should not be held anywhere else in the Free State without appropriate permission being granted.
The spokesperson for the department, Hillary Mophethe, confirmed before the set court date that the matter is currently before the court and subject to legal proceedings.
The festival, described as a premier event celebrating local innovation, culture, and fashion, also acknowledged receipt of the notion from the Bloemfontein High Court. “We fully respect the judicial process and are committed to adhering to the rule of law. In response to the Notice of Motion, we have filed our Responding Affidavit and are prepared to defend the matter on a non-urgent basis during Friday’s proceedings,” read a statement released by the festival organisers.
The department and Kenworth Group appeared before court on 20 September where the judgment was in the festival’s favour. “The organisers of Lemo Fest are pleased to announce that the Bloemfontein High Court has ruled in their favour regarding the urgent application.”
Freddie Kenney, Executive Chairperson & Founder of Kenworth Group, further mentioned that the Kenworth Group is delighted with the court’s decision.
“We are delighted with the court’s decision which allows us to continue with Lemo Fest as planned. This victory is not just for us but for the entire community. Our focus remains on delivering a world-class experience that promotes local talent, creates jobs, and brings a positive economic impact to the Community of Mangaung.
We want to reassure all our patrons that Lemo Fest is still on track to provide the exceptional entertainment and cultural showcase we have promised,” Kenny concluded.
The festival is set to commence on 4 October until later that month.
Abigail Visagie
