South Africa has opted out of adopting the proposed African Charter on Family, Sovereignty and Values at the 4th Inter-Parliamentary Conference currently taking place in Accra, citing concerns that some of its provisions are inconsistent with the country’s Constitution and the rule of law.
Speaking on behalf of the South African delegation, Zandile Majozi said the Charter’s definition of marriage as exclusively between a man and a woman does not align with South Africa’s constitutional principles, legal framework, and the values upheld by its people.
The position of the South African delegation was presented to conference participants by the Member of Parliament for Ho West, Emmanuel Bedzrah, during deliberations on the proposed Charter.
South Africa stated that while it appreciates the objectives of the document, it cannot endorse provisions that conflict with its constitutional obligations and established legal standards.
Meanwhile, Mozambique has also announced its decision to abstain from the adoption of the African Charter on Family, Sovereignty and Values. The country attributed its decision to logistical difficulties and legislative scheduling constraints.
The decision was conveyed in a letter from the head of the Mozambican delegation, Carlos Tembe, addressed to the Speaker of Parliament. The letter was read to delegates by Emmanuel Bedzrah.
The developments have added a new dimension to discussions at the conference, where lawmakers and delegates from across Africa are considering the proposed Charter, which seeks to promote family values, cultural identity, and national sovereignty on the continent.
The differing positions taken by South Africa and Mozambique highlight the ongoing debate over the balance between traditional values, constitutional rights, and international legal commitments in African societies.
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