Mpumalanga Premier Backs Proposed Framework to Regulate Christian Sector

Mpumalanga Premier Mandla Ndlovu has welcomed the Section 22 Ad Hoc Committee for the Christian Sector to the province as it begins public consultations on a proposed self-regulatory framework aimed at promoting accountability, transparency and ethical leadership within churches across South Africa.

Premier Ndlovu received members of the committee on Monday, 9 November 2026, ahead of a series of public participation hearings scheduled to take place from Tuesday, 10 November, until Thursday, 12 November 2026, at the Ehlanzeni District Disaster Centre.

The consultations will bring together more than 400 representatives from various church denominations to deliberate on the proposed draft Self-Regulatory Framework for the Christian Sector.

The committee was established in terms of the Commission for the Promotion and Protection of the Rights of Cultural, Religious and Linguistic Communities Act 19 of 2002. Its proposed framework seeks to address challenges within the Christian sector by encouraging a culture of accountability, transparency and ethical conduct.

Among the key proposals are the establishment of a Christian Practice Council for Ethics and Accountability, as well as the registration of churches to strengthen oversight and promote responsible religious leadership.

During the engagement, the committee presented the proposed framework to the Premier, who pledged the provincial government's support for the consultation process.

Ndlovu described the initiative as an important opportunity for the Christian sector to introduce a countrywide self-regulatory system, saying it could help restore public trust and confidence in religious institutions while strengthening the Church's image as a moral leader in society.

The Premier also expressed appreciation to the committee and various church denominations for their continued prayers for the country, particularly during the recent local government elections.

He further highlighted the important role that churches can play in addressing some of society's most pressing challenges, including Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF), the protection of vulnerable communities and the creation of safe and peaceful places of worship.

The consultation process is expected to provide church leaders and representatives with an opportunity to engage with the proposed framework, raise concerns and contribute towards shaping a self-regulatory approach for the Christian sector in South Africa.