Page:Constitution of the Republic of South Africa 1996 from Government Gazette.djvu/11



Chapter 2—Bill of Rights Freedom of religion, belief and opinion

Everyone has the right to freedom of conscience, religion, thought, belief and opinion.

Religious observances may be conducted at state or state-aided institutions, provided that —

those observances follow rules made by the appropriate public authorities; they are conducted on an equitable basis; and attendance at them is free and voluntary.

This section does not prevent legislation recognising —

marriages concluded under any tradition, or a system of religious, personal or family law; or systems of personal and family law under any tradition, or adhered to by persons professing a particular religion.

Recognition in terms of paragraph (a) must be consistent with this section and the other provisions of the Constitution.

Freedom of expression

Everyone has the right to freedom of expression, which includes —

freedom of the press and other media; freedom to receive or impart information or ideas; freedom of artistic creativity; and academic freedom and freedom of scientific research.

The right in subsection (1) does not extend to —

propaganda for war; incitement of imminent violence; or advocacy of hatred that is based on race, ethnicity, gender or religion, and that constitutes incitement to cause harm.

Assembly, demonstration, picket and petition

Everyone has the right, peacefully and unarmed, to assemble, to demonstrate, to picket and to present petitions.

Freedom of association

Everyone has the right to freedom of association.

Political rights

Every citizen is free to make political choices, which includes the right —

to form a political party; to participate in the activities of, or recruit members for, a political party; and to campaign for a political party or cause.

Every citizen has the right to free, fair and regular elections for any legislative body established in terms of the Constitution.

Every adult citizen has the right —

to vote in elections for any legislative body established in