The South African government has warned individuals and organisations against altering the national flag.
Flag
1Min
South Africa
Government warns against altered SA flag after Israel Star of David version displayed at Parliament protest
Government has cautioned the public against modifying South Africa’s national flag after an altered version incorporating Israel’s Star of David was reportedly displayed by church groups during a demonstration outside Parliament. The warning comes amid sensitivities surrounding the use of national symbols to express political and religious views.
The South African government has warned individuals and organisations against altering the national flag after a modified version featuring Israel’s Star of David was reportedly displayed during a church-led demonstration outside Parliament.
In a statement on Monday, 2 November, the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) said the altered flag was displayed during a public demonstration by church groups on Friday, 30 October.
The flag reportedly combined elements of South Africa’s national flag with Israel’s Star of David, prompting government to reiterate the importance of preserving the prescribed design of the country’s national symbol.
Government said the national flag represents South Africa’s identity, sovereignty and constitutional democracy, describing it as a unifying symbol that belongs to all South Africans.
“The South African National Flag is not an interchangeable emblem or a design that should be modified,” government said.
The statement stressed that the flag’s official design and colours form part of the country’s national identity and should not be altered or compromised.
Constitutional protection of the national flag
Government said the prescribed design of the national flag is set out in Schedule 1 of the Constitution, while Government Notice 510 of 2001 provides guidance on its appropriate use and treatment.
It emphasised that an altered version cannot replace or be presented as the official South African national flag.
The warning also comes with a broader message about how national symbols are used during demonstrations, particularly where political, religious or international issues are involved.
Government acknowledged that individuals and organisations have the right to express their convictions through lawful means but cautioned that such expression should not undermine the integrity of national symbols.
It further warned that displaying a modified flag should not create the impression that it reflects South Africa’s official position on geopolitical matters.
Call to protect national identity
Government urged South Africans to respect and preserve the national flag in its prescribed form, saying protecting national symbols contributes to social cohesion and respect for the country’s constitutional values.
