Home Affairs removes unequal rules for Muslim Marriage officers

Muslim marriage officers will now be recognised on the same basis as other religious marriage officers, the Department of Home Affairs announced on Thursday. The Department of Home Affairs this week introduced another reform aimed at advancing equality for the Muslim community, following the introduction of Muslim marriage certificates in 2024. Such certificates recognised Muslim marriages in South Africa for the very first time.

According to Home Affairs Minister Leon Schreiber’s spokesperson Carli Van Wyk, the new directive will allow Muslim religious leaders certified as Marriage Officers to continue their work without needing to reapply for certification every five years. Van Wyk said Muslim Marriage Officers were subject to a renewal requirement that did not apply to other religious groups for many years. She said the five-year limitation was originally introduced as a temporary measure while new marriage legislation was developed.

However, as the Marriage Bill has still not been promulgated, the continuation of this limitation has become even more unjustifiable.” Van Wyk said the minister reached his decision after consulting Muslim leaders, who had raised concerns over unequal treatment. “This decision ensures that all marriage officers, including Muslim Marriage Officers, are treated on equal terms,” Schreiber said.