JOHANNESBURG - A frequent visitor to one of Johannesburg’s most exclusive golf clubs says he’s been abruptly banned.
Not for misconduct, but for having a Palestinian flag on his car.
What started as a routine visit has now spiralled into a viral flashpoint, raising questions about expression, access, and the rules that govern private spaces.
Louis Seeco said he’s frequented it many times, often invited as a guest by friends who are members.
But this time, things took a very different turn.
“As I was packing my golf bag in my car, a gentleman came to me, introduced himself as the GM of the club, and said they don’t take kindly to me displaying the Palestinian flag on my car. And it’s not allowed. And I said to him, but South Africa has taken a position on Palestine. The country is currently pursuing a matter at the ICJ. Now, if SA has taken a particular position, me having a flag on my car surely supports that position.”
Seeco said it was the first time he’d ever had an issue at the club, but the response was immediate.
In a letter to Seeco, the club said all political and religious symbols are not allowed anywhere on its property, saying such displays can be inflammatory and go against its goal of keeping the environment neutral and welcoming.
When eNCA reached out to the General Manager for comment, he declined to respond.
For now, Seeco said he’ll gladly walk away from a club he once frequented, but will continue to stand firm on the stance that got him banned.
“I feel very well and very good about the stance that I’ve taken. And I think this flag will fly on my car or sit on my car for many years to come, until Palestine is free. I have no reason to apologise, and I have no intention to take them to any court. Their conscience will judge them.”