Public Awareness of Marriages Act Elicits Diverse Reactions in Bulawayo, City Hall Becomes Epicentre of Debate
Bulawayo residents had mixed reactions during the Public Legal Awareness of the Marriages Act (Chapter 5:17) by The Law Development Commission, under the Ministry of Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs. The event took place at the Small City Hall on Friday, 30 June 2023. The event meant to shed light on the new provisions introduced by the Marriages Act and sparked a spirited debate in Bulawayo.
Furthermore, one of the key points highlighted during the event was the requirement for partners to register their marriages with the Registrar General, as well as the importance of ensuring that both spouses’ names are included on assets and title deeds. These provisions aim to safeguard the rights of individuals in various types of unions, including unregistered customary law unions and civil partnerships.
Inclusive Law
Additionally, supporters of the new law commended its inclusive nature and its efforts to protect women and children who were previously vulnerable in unregistered unions. Pastor Sukolulhe Ndlovu, a prominent women’s rights activist, expressed her appreciation for the Act, emphasizing how it addresses the plight of women who have fallen victim to fraudulent marriages.
“In our survey, we discovered that many women were deceived by men who feigned marriage for their own convenience, only to abandon them and return to their actual wives,” said Ndlovu.
She praised the Act for recognizing women’s rights and providing a legal framework to protect them, particularly in the context of civil partnerships.
Empowering Women: Landmark Partnership Act
Moreover, Ndlovu highlighted the Act’s provisions concerning the division of property in civil partnerships, as well as issues related to custody, maintenance, and claims of arrear maintenance of children. She argued that the Act empowers widows and single women who have historically faced discrimination and marginalization.
Another woman, who chose to remain unidentified, echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the Act’s potential to accommodate widows in society. “With 59,000 widows in Bulawayo, where do you think these widows would find partners if they were to be sued?” she questioned.
However, not everyone shared the same enthusiasm for the Act. Critics raised concerns that certain provisions may inadvertently encourage adultery and undermine the sanctity of marriage. These objections were particularly voiced by religious leaders who believed that the Act disregarded the moral fabric of society.
One Christian pastor, identified as Khumalo, condemned the Marriages Act, stating, “Legalizing adultery is not right. The provision for civil partnerships promotes immorality. Where are our morals as Christians?” He expressed apprehension, claiming that the Act posed a threat to the spiritual well-being of society.
Non-Monogamous Recognition in Controversial Act
To add, a contentious aspect of the Act that attracted significant criticism was its recognition of non-monogamous relationships, including polygamous marriages. Some citizens argued that this provision normalized behaviour that contradicted traditional values and religious beliefs.
Another anonymous resident of Bulawayo criticized the Marriages Act, suggesting that it could lead to the deliberate transmission of sexually transmitted diseases such as HIV/AIDS.
The Marriages Act, which was officially gazetted on September 16, 2022, has evoked mixed reactions within the community. While some expressed concerns about its potential to promote adultery, others praised its provisions for protecting widows and single women.
The Act, which repealed the Marriage Act [Chapter 511] and Customary Marriages Act [Chapter 5.07] entirely, introduced significant changes to the legal framework governing marriages in Zimbabwe. It departed from traditional common law practices by incorporating provisions for civil partnerships and qualified civil marriages.
Bulawayo Engages in Marriages Act Discourse
Over the years, the Marriages Act has undergone substantial revisions, and its latest iteration has triggered a fervent discourse among citizens, religious leaders, and legal experts. The consultation held in Bulawayo concluded with the Ministry of Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs expressing gratitude to the citizens for their participation.
“We appreciate your input and will carefully consider all the opinions shared here today,” said Deputy Chairman Law Development Commission, Rex Shana.
Lastly, the government hopes that raising public awareness through such events will address any misconceptions or misinformation surrounding the Act and pave the way for its successful implementation.
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