Insta
South Africa: Green Paper Proposing To Permit Multiple Husbands For A Woman Sparks Fresh Debate And Protests
Tarkesh Jha
Jun 30, 2021, 04:06 PM | Updated 04:06 PM IST
Save & read from anywhere!
Bookmark stories for easy access on any device or the Swarajya app.
South Africa’s home department has put forth a green paper proposing to permit women to have multiple husbands. The green paper was drawn out in April and has been open for comments right from May to 30th June. However, the said document has invited criticism from the conservative section of the country’s society.
The government maintains that the document was prepared on the backdrop of comprehensive consultations with religious and traditional leaders along with human rights activists. Apparently, the activists claim that legal recognition for polyandry is a demand of the right to equality.
The document from the government argues that the legislation that regulates marriages in the country isn’t based on the constitutional provisions of the country. It adds that the law at the time being has some legacy issues.
“The purpose of the marriage policy is to establish a policy foundation for regulating the marriages of all persons that reside in SA,” the document reads as per a report by the Hindustan Times.
It adds, “The envisaged marriage statute will enable South Africans and residents of all sexual orientations, religious and cultural persuasions to conclude legal marriages that will accord with the principles of equality, non-discrimination, human dignity and unity in diversity, as encapsulated in the Constitution.”
The South African constitution reportedly legally recognizes and permits polygamy.
Save & read from anywhere!
Bookmark stories for easy access on any device or the Swarajya app.
Support Swarajya's 50 Ground Reports Project & Sponsor A Story
Every general election Swarajya does a 50 ground reports project.
Aimed only at serious readers and those who appreciate the nuances of political undercurrents, the project provides a sense of India's electoral landscape. As you know, these reports are produced after considerable investment of travel, time and effort on the ground.
This time too we've kicked off the project in style and have covered over 30 constituencies already. If you're someone who appreciates such work and have enjoyed our coverage please consider sponsoring a ground report for just Rs 2999 to Rs 19,999 - it goes a long way in helping us produce more quality reportage.
You can also back this project by becoming a subscriber for as little as Rs 999 - so do click on this links and choose a plan that suits you and back us.
Click below to contribute.