Tweede Nuwe Jaar (Second New Year) has been the traditional day for the carnival, which attracts thousands of spectators but, since 2009 the city authorities have argued that the day is not an official public holiday and disrupts business in the city.
However, Cape Town's mayor, Patricia de Lille has now appointed retired Constitutional Court Judge, Kate O'Regan to act as a mediator and to lead negotiations between the minstrels and the city officials.
Cape Malay Choir Board president, Shafiek April says they will listen to the city's point of view and will attend a mediation hearing. However, he says, they will not accept a restriction on how many troupes are allowed to march through Bo-Kaap.
He says the event has immense historical and cultural significance for the people of Cape Town and for many thousands of other spectators who enjoy the parade.
Read more about the carnival.
