Bill of Morals

The Constitution could soon be altered to include a Bill of Morals that would govern behaviour and exhort South Africans to "greet warmly, speak gently and behave in a courteous manner".

The proposal, from the National Religious Leaders' Forum, envisages an act of parliament and possibly based on "biblical values" and certainly in line with general religious principles.

In a presentation made to President Thabo Mbeki two weeks ago, the forum suggested that the bill "articulate a moral vision that can unify, uplift and inspire us to build a great society". The meeting agreed on the need for such legislation.

"The Bill of Morals can also be based on biblical values (or values of all religious traditions) such as giving charity and acting with compassion," the proposal states.