By Rorisang Modiba
The legal fraternity is welcoming a Free State High Court decision this week that allows husbands to take their wives’ surnames.
This ruling came after two couples went to court because the Department of Home Affairs refused to let the husbands adopt their wives’ names.
They argued that the current laws support outdated gender norms from a patriarchal society, which contribute to gender inequality.
The High Court decision aligns with a Constitutional Court judgment handed down in early September.
Legal expert Ayanda Moremoholo stated that this important judgment means a part of the Birth and Death Registration Act needs to be changed, as the court suggested.
This topic has led to lively discussions on platforms like Reddit, where people share their thoughts on husbands taking their wives’ surnames.
One user commented: “I actually really like the idea and hope it becomes more mainstream. I think it’s up to each couple to decide what is best for them, and I hope people pick based on what they like versus what others think.”
Another commenter shared their experience, explaining that their husband took their last name when they got married. They had decided long ago that they didn’t want to change their name, stating: “It’s my name, I like it. Why should I have to change it if I don’t want to?” They noted that their husband was supportive, asking, “That’s fine, can I take yours?”
Pictured above: Couple.
Source: Stock
