ConCourt surname ruling an abomination - Contralesa

Decision offends cultural norms

- By Tshwarelo eseng Mogakane

Contralesa president Kgoshi Mathopa Mokoena

The Congress of Traditional Leaders of South Africa (Contralesa) has warned African men not to be tempted by a recent Constitutional Court (Concourt) ruling that permits them to adopt their wife's surname, calling the decision an "abomination" that undermines African culture and heritage.

Contralesa president Kgoši Mathopa Mokoena used the provincial Heritage Day celebration in Grootvlei, Dipaleseng Local Municipality, Mpumalanga, on Wednesday to deliver a sharp rebuke of the ruling, which he said clashes with long-held traditions. Addressing a lively gathering of community members, Mokoena accused the court of disrespecting custom and usurping the role of parliament.

"As custodians of culture, it is our task to ensure that our practices as African people are promoted and supported. Some of the things appear to be leading us astray from our traditions. They are a taboo we do not know. We discourage our people from doing it. We are speaking about the abomination you have heard," he said.