PRESS STATEMENT BY THE CONSTITUTIONAL ASSEMBLY ON THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN STATE AND RELIGION
Issued by: Constitutional Assembly
The Constitutional Assembly (CA) takes note of the concern expressed amongst certain sections of the Christian community with regard to discussions in the CA on the relationship between state and religion (or Church).
There has been some misrepresentation of the position taken by political parties represented in the CA. The CA recognises the sensitivity of this matter, and wishes to assure all South Africans that the debate on this matter will occur in an atmosphere of inclusivity and tolerance, and in recognition of the fact that the interim constitution and the constitutional principles recognise religious freedom as a fundamental right.
All parties in the CA support fully the notion that there should be a separation between state and religion (or church) in the new constitution.
Some people and organisations outside the CA have suggested, however, that the consequences of this could be that people with religious beliefs would not be entitled to serve in government in any form and that no religious service could be held in any state building or institution. This interpretation is being used to create public controversy.
It must be stated unequivocally that at no stage in any debate of any structure of the CA has this interpretation of the notion of the separation between state and religion been suggested by any party or person.
The fears raised do not in any way reflect the position of any party within the CA. The CA wishes to assure all South Africans that it remains committed to the principle of transparency. The views of South Africans will be taken into consideration in the drafting of the new constitution.
ISSUED BY CHAIRPERSON, M C RAMAPHOSA
26 May 1995
Media enquiries: Enoch Sithole
Tel: 021 245031
Cell: 083 651 2222
Pager: 021 4184 616 code NAT 2115
Fax: 021 241160/1