ACDP welcomes government's move against "Gay Marriages"

Rev Kenneth Meshoe

The African Christian Democratic Party (ACDP) welcomes the government’s decision to appeal against the judgement by the Supreme Court of Appeal that authorises the legalisation of “same sex marriages”.

“The ACDP reiterates the call for a referendum on the issue of same sex marriages, which can guide Parliament as to a possible Marriage Protection Amendment to the Constitution.” said ACDP President Reverend Kenneth Meshoe.

“In view of the vast policy implications, the ACDP believes that this matter should have been referred back to parliament for proper consideration of all the issues. This is in line with the minority judgement by Supreme Appeal Court Judge Farlom, who recommended this course of action. This would also respect the separation of powers.” said ACDP President Reverend Kenneth Meshoe.

“The majority judgement, resulting in the order redefining marriage taking immediate effect, has in effect denied Members of Parliament, as elected representatives of the people of South Africa, the opportunity to deal with this emotive issue.”

“History, nature, social science, anthropology, religion, and theology all coalesce in vigorous support of marriage, as it has always been understood: a life-long union of male and female for the purpose of creating stable families.”

“The five major religions, Christianity, Buddhism, Hinduism, Islam and Judaism recognise and uphold the natural, heterosexual understanding of marriage.”