CRL Rights Commission defends new oversight committee

AS CRITICISM mounts from church leaders and faith-based organisations, the CRL Rights Commission has defended its decision to establish a Section 22 Committee, a new body meant to consult on governance and accountability in religious institutions.

- SIPHESIHLE BUTHELEZI

The Commission insists the initiative is being misunderstood and that it is not a step toward regulating faith.

Commission spokesperson Mpiyakhe Mkholo said the committee was created under Section 22 of the CRL Act, which allows the Commission to appoint advisory structures. He explained that it follows a long process that began with a 2015-16 national investigation into the commercialisation of religion and the abuse of belief systems.

“That report was presented to Parliament, and in 2018, religious leaders were invited to express their views about its findings,” Mkholo said.

“The Portfolio Committee then made recommendations, including the need for a national consultative conference and a mechanism to promote self-regulation within the religious sector.”