BY UNATHI NKANJENI

Same-sex couples will soon have more rights following the passing of a new marriage bill by the National Council of Provinces (NCOP). This week, the NCOP passed the Civil Union Amendment Bill, which prohibits marriage officials from discriminating against same-sex couples because of their personal beliefs.

Here is what you need to know:

The bill's aim

During a virtual sitting on Wednesday, the NCOP passed the bill after it garnered 33 votes from parties which voted in favour of it. The aim of the bill is to repeal section 6 of the Civil Union Act of 2006 which allows a marriage officer to inform the home affairs minister of their objection to officiate same-sex unions on the grounds of conscience, religion or belief. This means state marriage officers and magistrates will be prohibited from refusing to solemnise a civil union between same-sex couples.

Equality for all

Chairperson of the select committee on justice Shahidabibi Shaik said the bill would afford same-sex couples the same rights as heterosexual couples.

“The select committee received a briefing from a parliamentary legal adviser. Following this briefing the committee took a resolution to involve the public in the matter and called for submissions on the bill.

“We received about 325 submissions from individuals and organisations. There were those who opposed the repeal of section 6 of the Civil Union Act and there were those in support,” said Shaik. Read more via Sunday Times