Shaw is part of a legal group challenging the practices of financial institutions accused of auctioning homes at “bargain-bin” prices, leaving former homeowners dispossessed and without recourse.

This week, a High Court judge criticised Standard Bank for its “disproportionate” attempt to foreclose on the home of trade union leader Zwelinzima Vavi, despite his ongoing efforts to settle arrears on his loan.

Shaw says the banks’ conduct violates human rights and continues to affect thousands across the country.

“This has been going on since before the Constitution came in. But even after its adoption, banks have continued these practices. More than 100 000 people have had their homes sold for far less than they were worth sometimes at 50 to 70% off their value,”he said.

--ChannelAfrica--