A KwaZulu-Natal north coast Roman Catholic Church priest, recently suspended for accepting nomination as a uMkhonto weSizwe Party (MKP) candidate, is considering whether to switch to politics. Father Jabulani Ndaba was suspended from the church's activities after the MKP registered him to contest a councillor position for Ward 35 in the uMhlathuze Municipality. He is currently under pressure from both the MKP and the church.
The Catholic Church has strict rules prohibiting its priests from being political activists. According to Reverend Dr Nhlanhla Mchunu, the Southern African Catholic Bishops' Conference Associate Secretary General, clerics should not use their positions to influence people to vote for a particular party or political power. The church's mission would be compromised if it were aligned with a particular political ideology.
Fr Ndaba said he was requested by community members to contest elections and that becoming a councillor was part of his ministry. However, at 65 years old, he would not like to join politics. He is still consulting with God for guidance on whether to continue with his spiritual journey or join politics. The Electoral Commission of South Africa had closed candidate registration, adding pressure to his decision.
The Apostolic Administrator of eShowe, Cardinal Wilfrid Napier, informed church elders and management of Fr Ndaba's suspension on September 21. The suspension was in accordance with Canon Law and the appropriate canonical procedure. Fr Ndaba is not allowed to exercise public priestly ministry, including celebrating Mass and sacraments, preaching, or pastoral ministry, until further notice.
Dr Mchunu explained that clerics are not allowed to play an active role in political parties or direct trade unions unless required for the defence of the Church's rights or to promote the common good. Exceptional circumstances may allow clerics to take an active political role, but they must first seek permission from their superiors and ensure their reasons are consistent with church teaching.
Dr Mchunu cited the example of anti-apartheid activist Reverend Smangaliso Mkhatshwa, who became directly involved in politics as an ANC member. Mkhatshwa had sought permission from his bishop to take an active role in politics in support of South Africa's transition to democracy, which was granted after deliberations and consultations.
Cardinal Napier declined to comment further on Fr Ndaba's matter, citing that it was still being processed according to Canon Law. The MKP has questioned the Catholic Church's suspension of Fr Ndaba, while Fr Ndaba himself remains uncertain about his future in politics or the priesthood.
Key points
- Catholic priest Father Jabulani Ndaba suspended for standing as MKP candidate
- Church rules prohibit priests from being political activists
- Fr Ndaba faces pressure from MKP and church over his future decision
