New independent Christian council aims to restore trust in South Africa's Christian community

In a significant development for South Africa's religious landscape, the Section 22 Ad Hoc Committee for the Christian Sector has unveiled a draft framework advocating for the establishment of an Independent Christian Practice Council for Ethics and Accountability.

This announcement, made during a press briefing by the Cultural, Religious and Language (CRL) Commission on Friday, aims to establish a robust framework to facilitate ethics and accountability among Christian organisations across the nation.

Composed of representatives from prominent religious entities, including the Council of African Independent Churches (CAIC), various Nazareth Baptist Churches, the Moral Regeneration Movement, and the South African Council of Churches, the Section 22 Ad Hoc Committee has been tasked with spearheading broad consultations and dialogues. Its ultimate goal is to create mechanisms that ensure ethical practice within South Africa's diverse Christian community.

Reverand Dr John Maloma emphasised the urgent need for this council, stating, "The framework requires the creation of an independent Christian Practitioners Council for Ethics and Accountability, composed of democratically elected and respected leaders and experts from across our diverse communities. This council will support, guide, and certify organisations that commit to these standards.”

This initiative comes in the wake of growing concerns about the moral integrity of certain religious leaders, some of whom have faced serious allegations related to controversial practices. Recent events have underscored the importance of maintaining strong ethical standards to rebuild trust among congregants and ensure their rights are protected.

Earlier this year, the CRL Commission released a report that was particularly pointed, stemming from an investigation into allegations of religious rights violations within the Kwasizabantu Mission Church. This examination was prompted by increasing media scrutiny concerning the treatment of worshippers at the mission. Such concerns echo those raised in a 2017 report, which delved into the commercialisation of religion and the exploitation of people's belief systems.

The creation of the Independent Christian Practice Council represents a pivotal step towards accountability and ethical governance within the Church. It is a response not just to past controversies but also a proactive strategy to foster a spiritually healthy environment that promotes the well-being of all congregants.