Secularism, the bridge to harmony and democracy

Some provinces call their members of executive councils ministers, and I can truly say that this is the second time that I have held the title, although the previous time, I was on a pulpit, not a podium.

- OPINION Martin Meyer

But my road has taken me from preaching the gospel to social work and into public works and infrastructure.

I now work to improve people’s lives where previously I was more concerned with their eternal lives!

It is from this background that I am a firm believer in the secular state, and that a clear separation between church and state is needed. My view is obviously also influenced by the fact that I am a member of the LGBTIQ+ community.

South Africa is a home to people of different races, cultures, languages and religions. Our Constitution recognises this diversity and seeks to protect it through a commitment to democracy, human rights and, crucially, secular governance as the foundation to ensure freedom, fairness and unity.

In a secular state the government remains neutral in matters of religion, neither promoting nor suppressing any faith. This does not mean hostility toward religion; rather, it ensures that no religion is privileged over another and that individuals are free to practise — or not practise — any belief without state interference.

This principle is enshrined in section 15 of our Constitution, which guarantees freedom of religion, belief and opinion.