Same-Sex and Polygamous Marriages Dominate Marriage Bill Public Hearing

Debate over same-sex and polygamous marriages took centre stage at a Marriage Bill public hearing hosted by the parliamentary portfolio committee on home affairs in Cato Manor, Durban, on Wednesday. The session saw divided opinions, with some calling for the Bill’s removal, while others supported it with proposed amendments.

Religious and Cultural Concerns on Same-Sex Marriages

A significant portion of the discussion focused on same-sex marriages, with some religious leaders and community members voicing strong opposition.

Dr Xoli Jones from South African Women in Christ argued that same-sex unions do not produce children and would “spread unrighteousness.”

Ward 83 committee secretary Nkonzo Mzimela also opposed same-sex marriages, citing religious beliefs.

“I disagree with same-sex marriages because God didn’t create a man and a woman without a reason, and then here on earth, we change that,” Mzimela said.

Similarly, John Moses from Selah Christian Fellowship suggested that same-sex unions should be regulated under separate laws, rather than being recognised as marriage.

“Marriage has always been understood as a union between a man and a woman. We cannot redefine it now,” Moses said.

Debate Over Polygamous Marriages

Polygamy was another key issue, with contrasting viewpoints emerging.

Moses expressed concerns over the first wife’s consent, asking:

“What happens if the first wife does not consent? Does she become a victim of abuse? And if men can take multiple partners, should women be granted the same right?”

Others, however, defended polygamy as a cultural norm.

Bishop Mlondi Manzini of Ekuthuleni Apostolic Church in Zion dismissed claims that polygamy leads to social problems, saying:

“These issues are not caused by polygamy itself but by the state of mind of those involved.”

Ward 84 committee secretary Ntombizini Ngcobo supported polygamy, calling it an integral part of Nguni culture.

“A polygamous marriage is your choice,” Ngcobo stated.

Ward 88 committee member Musa Dlamini urged tolerance, saying:

“If polygamy doesn’t align with your traditions, don’t bash it. Let those who practice it continue, as long as no one is harmed or oppressed.”

Dlamini extended the same argument to same-sex relationships, arguing that people should respect the choices of others.

A Divisive Public Debate

The public hearing highlighted deep divisions over the Marriage Bill, particularly around religion, culture, and personal freedoms. With opposing views on same-sex and polygamous unions, lawmakers face a challenging task in drafting legislation that balances constitutional rights, cultural traditions, and religious beliefs.

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Sourced:IOL