Pretoria - The Minister of Justice, Jeff Radebe, has extended the deadline for public comments and input on the Muslim Marriages Bill from 15 March to 31 May.
The deadline has been extended in recognition of the need to allow for maximum participation in the process of consultation and engagement.
"We trust that everybody concerned will exploit this opportunity and make meaningful submissions," said department spokesperson Tlali Tlali.
He explained that since its publication the Bill has elicited huge public response and reaction. Over 5000 submissions have been received with comments ranging from those who fully support the Bill, with others who support it subject to amendments, whilst others reject it completely in its current formulation.
"We will allow for consultations and engagements to take place to the extent that it is practical to do so. We are aware that what we are dealing with here is a complex and emotive matter but one around which a resolution must be found," said Tlali.
The Bill was presented to Cabinet where it was approved for publication for public comments and input. It published in the Government Gazette on 21 January 2011. The Bill, however, has not yet been introduced into Parliament.
The Bill can be obtained on the department's website: www.justice.gov.za and in the Government Gazette No.33946, dated 21 January 2011.
