The short answer Yes, both partners in a civil union can choose what surnames they will be known by. The long answer The Civil Union Register allows both spouses to choose the surnames by which they will be referred after their marriage, and Part E of the Civil Union Register allows them to indicate the surnames they wish to be recorded in...

Protesters speak of ignorance and bigotry from clinic staff By Mosima Rafapa The TAC convened a demonstration march to the Union Buildings on Monday against corruption in the health system and failing public health facilities. The TAC says most facilities “are in shambles”. Protesters also spoke about clinics failing women seeking abortions and contraception. More than 200 people marched from Loftus stadium...

Prevention and Combating of Hate Crimes and Hate Speech Bill stalled since 2018 By Nombulelo Damba-Hendrik Even as Pride Month comes to a close, gay people still find themselves the victims of bigoted speech and hate crimes. Gay rights advocates suspect that gay people murdered in Cape Town’s townships over the past few months were victims of hate crimes. Phelokazi Mqathana, from Khayelitsha...

Organisations analysed letters denying LGBTI applicants refugee status By Tariro Washinyira A report released on Thursday by several civil society organisations has found evidence that LGBT refugees are being denied asylum in South Africa despite being “eligible for protection under international and domestic law”. The authors of the report surveyed denial letters for 67 asylum applicants who had applied for asylum on the basis of...

Bongile Joni pleads guilty, sentenced to an effective eight years in prison By Kim Reynolds Bongile Joni pleaded guilty on Thursday in the Strand Magistrate’s Regional Court to the murder of Noxolo Xakeka. Magistrate Franselien Mouton sentenced him to an effective eight years in prison. The murder took place on 1 January. Joni gave his version of events to the court on Thursday:...