Comments on: CONCERN AS CHIEF JUSTICE URGES INCLUDING RELIGION IN SA LAW

By: NIc

NIc — Tue, 22 Jul 2014 16:47:13 +0000

The morality proposed by religion is black and white – and as such, is inherantly biased. Sensible South Africans appreciate that morality and mutually respectful behaviour do not require any specific religion to exist. In order for the ideals of equality and freedom to be a reality, we require laws that do not bias any specific groups.

When applying religion as a legal tool, the first question that arises is which religion should be used. Choosing any religion over another will indirectly reflect superiority and inferiority. This is counterintuitive to equal rights and respecting individual views.

I believe that the Minister of Justice’s views should be applied just as any other case is dealt with in court. Only after all the merits of the case have been reviewed, one can judge whether a particular course of action would be appropriate for that particular situation. My criticism is that making contentious statements that are directed towards a public audience will invariably lead to generalisations and conflict. This discord will probably lead to more conflict regarding the laws that our Minister of Justice rightfully wants to strengthen.

By: Joel

Joel — Fri, 30 May 2014 21:11:49 +0000

Blessed is the man who listen to the word of God. Every one who see this comment read in the bible rommas 2V1 down ward concerning gay things n let every man believe wha he wishes to believe this world is Gods and every thing in it he will purnish every one for his deeds one day

By: JackTrade

JackTrade — Thu, 29 May 2014 23:27:49 +0000

Very troubling – and an embarrassment to the law profession.

By: Mamba Writer

Mamba Writer — Thu, 29 May 2014 07:08:54 +0000

In reply to Adriaan Louw. Hi Adriaan, please see Luiz' update above after having watched the full speech.

By: Christina Engela

Christina Engela — Wed, 28 May 2014 20:38:05 +0000

Keep religion and religious interference OUT of the law! Morality has nothing to do with religion or the absence of religion! Many of the worst crimes against humanity have been committed by deeply religious people in the cause of some or other religion. Maintain the separation of religion and state!

By: Jay

Jay — Wed, 28 May 2014 16:24:06 +0000

Please let the judge know that they should rather focus on moral/ value based education in schools, but starting with tertiary institutions and compulsory re-education for public servants as a prerequisite for being in public service. No make believe deities required at all – just basic self respect and respect for all others.

By: Adriaan Louw

Adriaan Louw — Wed, 28 May 2014 15:28:56 +0000

This is not true and written completely out of context which is pure bad journalism. The Chief Justice stressed the importance of morality in law and its need to address the social ills of our society such as corruption, maladministration and injustice. In highlighting the importance of morality, he said we should take advantage of “the potency of religion to make a profound difference in sharpening the teeth of our legal instruments”.

While highlighting the prominence of religion, he pointed to its abuse and distortion by many people in the oppression of others.

He advocated religious tolerance in South Africa, and said the hallmark of an open and democratic society is its ability to accommodate different views and lifestyles.