ANC distances itself from proposed regulation of churches by CRL commission
The CRL commission has expressed concern about the commercialisation of religion
The African National Congress (ANC) has firmly stated that it does not support any plans to regulate churches in South Africa. The party's spokesperson, Mahlengi Bhengu, made this clear in a statement on Tuesday, asserting that the ANC neither supports nor endorses state control or regulation of churches and their religious affairs.
Bhengu emphasized that the ANC firmly believes in the protection and respect for the right to freedom of religion, belief, and association, which is a fundamental democratic right in South Africa, secured through the sacrifices of generations of South Africans led by the ANC. The ANC also expressed its commitment to dialogue, mutual respect, and fidelity to the constitution with the South African Church Defenders (SACD), a group of churches concerned about state intervention in church affairs.
The SACD is planning a proposed march, to which the ANC has shown respect and is committed to constructive engagement. Bhengu affirmed that the ANC values the relationship between churches and the party, noting that churches have been an integral part of the ANC's history, providing spiritual guidance, moral leadership, and solidarity in the struggle against colonialism and apartheid.
The ANC maintains a chaplaincy to continue this fraternal relations and engagement with churches, religious leaders, and faith-based organizations. The CRL Rights Commission has proposed greater oversight over churches following a series of cases involving the commercialization of religion, exploitation, abuse, and unorthodox religious practices.
Written by urgent.news from The Citizen's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
