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Hanks Irish Pub Racism Case Reopened after Court Overturns R1.25m Ruling

Published

3 weeks ago

August 13, 2025

Chiraag

Hanks Olde Irish Pub, racism case, Cape Town nightlife racism, Christopher Logan court battle, Western Cape High Court case, South Africa legal news, Joburg ETC

Court resets the clock in high-profile Cape Town racism row

A legal battle that once seemed settled is back on the table. The Western Cape High Court has overturned a R1.25 million defamation judgment previously awarded to Hanks Olde Irish Pub against Cape Town resident Christopher Logan, breathing new life into one of the city’s most controversial racism disputes.

The rescission was granted after both sides consented to set aside the default judgment due to an error in its wording, specifically the incorrect use of the word “Bar” instead of “Pub.” Hanks’ legal team stressed that this does not alter their intention to oppose the case. Logan had applied for the ruling to be set aside in December 2024, arguing he had never been given the opportunity to present his defence.

The night that started it all

The case stems from an incident in December 2022, when Logan’s friend, Thabiso Danco, alleged he was denied entry to Hanks Olde Irish Pub because he was not accompanied by a white person. Logan later claimed that the bouncer justified the decision by citing instructions from the owners.

The following day, Logan returned to the pub to confront management. The exchange escalated into a physical altercation, parts of which were captured on video and shared widely on social media. The footage sparked outrage and reignited national debates about racism in South Africa’s nightlife scene.

From viral video to courtroom clash

The owners of Hanks Olde Irish Pub denied the allegations and launched a defamation suit, saying Logan’s statements had caused serious reputational and financial harm. In the original judgment, Logan was ordered to pay R500,000 to the business for loss of income, R250,000 in general damages, and R250,000 to each of the two owners, plus interest.

A month later, Logan applied for rescission, maintaining he stood by his account of events but wanted the matter heard in open court. Speaking this week, he described the court’s decision as a “huge personal relief” after what he called a “massive toll” on his life, crediting his legal team, who acted pro bono, for securing the outcome.

What happens next

Under the new court order, Logan has until 14 August 2025 to file his notice of intention to defend. The pub’s owner, John Papadakis, has until 11 September to submit his plea, and any replications must be filed by 2 October. Judge Erasmus will then oversee case management to prepare for trial.

Lawyers for Hanks emphasised that agreeing to rescind the default judgment did not change their position. They still intend to fight the case in court and warned that if Logan does not defend the matter this time, they will reapply for a default judgment.

The next hearing promises to once again put both the original allegations and the broader issue of discrimination in Cape Town’s hospitality sector under public scrutiny.