The Portfolio Committee on Home Affairs is leading a major shift in South Africa’s marriage laws as it moves to unify all existing marriage legislation under a single Act.
Legal Age of Marriage Under Review
A press statement reveals that South Africans are debating the proposed Marriage Bill and calling to raise the legal age of marriage from 18 to 21.
Minors under 18 can marry under certain conditions. Customary and civil law allow girls as young as 12 and boys as young as 14 to wed.
The Bill proposes raising the age to 18 for both sexes.
However, public consultations show many think 18 is still too young.
Community members argue that 18-year-olds often remain in school, lack financial independence, and may not be mature enough for marriage.
Portfolio Committee Chairperson Mosa Chabane acknowledged these concerns and said, “The issue has been raised repeatedly across different provinces.”
Same-Sex Marriage Recognition Sparks Debate
The Bill also seeks to fully integrate same-sex marriages into the legal framework, merging the Civil Union Act with other marriage laws.
Same-sex unions are already legal, but consolidating them under one Act has sparked resistance.
Religious and traditional communities have strongly opposed this move.
BusinessTech reported that, many older men and religious groups have voiced opposition to same-sex marriages, citing cultural and religious beliefs.
Chabane noted a shift among some religious leaders, with a few now supporting the legislation’s inclusivity.
What Happens Next?
The Portfolio Committee on Home Affairs is continuing its nationwide public consultations and has already held hearings in Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal, and the Eastern Cape.
The committee plans future hearings for the Free State, Northern Cape, and North West.
These hearings will allow South Africans from all backgrounds to voice their opinions.
The committee has instructed the provincial Home Affairs manager to investigate and submit a report on these fraudulent cases.
Chabane emphasised that the committee has not made a final decision and will carefully consider all public submissions before finalising the Bill for debate.
What are your thoughts on the proposed changes to South Africa’s Marriage Bill?
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