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The Speaker of the National Assembly, Ms Thoko Didiza, has noted with concern the escalating tensions between segments of the religious sector and the Commission for the Promotion and Protection of the Rights of Cultural, Religious and Linguistic Communities (CRL Rights Commission), particularly in relation to the establishment and processes of its Section 22 Committee.

Parliament has received a range of formal submissions, memoranda and representations from faith-based organisations, including concerns raised regarding the constitutionality, inclusivity and conduct surrounding the establishment of the Section 22 Committee. These concerns include allegations of exclusionary processes, perceived overreach into religious affairs, and public statements attributed to leadership of the Commission that have been viewed as undermining religious beliefs and practices.

At the same time, the Speaker reiterates that the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa unequivocally guarantees freedom of religion, belief and opinion, while also affirming the responsibility of the State to protect all citizens from harm, including abuse that may occur within any sector of society. It is within this delicate constitutional balance that the current matter must be approached.

Parliament, through the Portfolio Committee on Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, has already begun engaging with stakeholders to better understand the issues at hand. These engagements have highlighted both the need to safeguard religious freedom and the importance of addressing harmful practices where they arise, within the framework of existing laws and constitutional protections.

The Speaker further notes that while serious concerns have been raised about the conduct of certain individuals associated with the process, it is important to emphasise that such conduct—where substantiated—does not represent the broader religious sector, which continues to play a vital and constructive role in South African society. Equally, it does not detract from the constitutional mandate of the CRL Rights Commission as a Chapter 9 institution tasked with promoting and protecting the rights of cultural, religious and linguistic communities.

In light of the growing tensions and the potential impact on public confidence, the Speaker has requested the Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Dr Zweli Mkhize, to urgently intensify engagements with all affected stakeholders, including the CRL Rights Commission, faith-based organisations, and relevant government departments. The objective of this intervention is to facilitate constructive dialogue, clarify areas of misunderstanding, and work towards a resolution that upholds constitutional principles, promotes inclusivity, and restores confidence in the processes underway.

The Speaker emphasises that Parliament remains the appropriate and constitutionally mandated platform for all sectors of society to raise concerns, seek clarity, and contribute to policy and legislative processes. In this regard, Parliament will continue to exercise its oversight responsibilities diligently, ensuring that all institutions operate within their constitutional mandate and that the rights of all South Africans are protected.

The Speaker calls on all parties to engage in this process in good faith, with mutual respect and a shared commitment to the values of the Constitution, including human dignity, equality, freedom, and unity in diversity.

Parliament will provide further updates as the process unfolds.

Issued by Parliamentary Communication Services on behalf of the Speaker of National Assembly