BAAGI News attended a public hearing on the proposed Marriage Bill held at Mogale City Centenary Hall, where the West Rand community gathered to express their views on the matter. The event provided a platform for diverse voices to share their opinions on the bill, which seeks to redefine the framework for marriage in South Africa.
The Centenary Hall became a fusion of diverse perspectives and opinions as communities responded to a parliamentary consultation on the proposed Marriage Bill. The attendees came from various religious and cultural backgrounds, including Christians, traditional healers, Muslims, and Rastafarians, all eager to voice their opinions.
Parliamentary representatives facilitated the session, explaining the details of the proposed bill before opening the floor for discussion. They gave speakers five minutes to speak. The aim was to engage citizens and gather their insights, ensuring that the legislation reflects the will of the people it seeks to serve.
Despite the different beliefs and practices, attendees displayed a surprising unity in rejecting the proposed Marriage Bill. Concerns raised included perceived conflicts with cultural traditions, potential limitations on religious freedoms, and a lack of inclusivity in the bill’s provisions.
One traditional healer emphasised, “Our customs and heritage are sacred. Any law that undermines them cannot be accepted.” Similar sentiments were echoed by a representative of the Rastafarian community, who stressed the need for laws that respect all cultural practices.
The African Christian Democratic Party (ACDP), Al Jama-ah, and Hope 4 SA were the only political parties that actively participated in the consultation. Their presence and opinions emphasised the significance of the discussions and underscored the political dimension of the debate. They rejected the bill in its entirety.
This united stand by the West Rand communities sends a clear message to Parliament: the voices of the people must guide the laws of the land. BAAGI News will continue to follow this story closely and provide updates as the legislative process unfolds.
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