Community members weigh in on labola ruling

While some residents feel the ruling protects long-standing cultural practices, others believe couples should have more freedom to decide how their finances will be handled- especially in today’s economy.

January 31, 2026

Tayla Smit Less than a minute

Vox pop — Victor Zondo: I think things should stay as they are. Labola is a good thing because it’s part of our tradition and culture.

South Africa’s Constitutional Court has ruled that once a customary marriage exists, couples are automatically married in community of property – and that arrangement cannot be changed later.

The Boksburg Advertiser asked a few locals whether they believe the law should stick closely to traditional labola practices or allow couples to decide their own property arrangements?