Legal, Religious and Civic Leaders Discuss Rule of Law and Religious Freedom at Tri-Africa Conference 

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Legal professionals, judges, academics, government representatives, religious leaders and law students from across Africa gathered at the Bedfordview Chapel in Johannesburg, South Africa, on 8 August 2026 for the J. Reuben Clark Law Society Tri-Africa Conference, held under the theme “The Rule of Law in Africa: Lessons Learned, Pathways Forward.”

Hosted by the J. Reuben Clark Law Society's Africa South Chapter in partnership with the Africa West, Africa Central Chapters and The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, the conference provided a platform for thoughtful discussion on constitutional governance, religious freedom and the role faith communities play in strengthening democratic societies.

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The conference featured keynote remarks by Honourable Judge Lebogang Modiba, Acting Deputy Judge President of the Gauteng Division of the High Court and a member of the Electoral Court, alongside presentations from legal scholars, government officials and practitioners representing South Africa, Mozambique and Zimbabwe.

Religious Freedom and the Rule of Law Go Hand in Hand

In a keynote address, Elder Carlos A. Godoy, President of the Africa South Area of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, highlighted the vital relationship between the rule of law and religious freedom.

He described religious liberty as a fundamental principle that protects human dignity, freedom of conscience and the right of individuals and faith communities to worship, serve and contribute positively to society. “Faith communities play an important role in strengthening families, promoting moral values, caring for vulnerable populations and responding to humanitarian needs” he said. One of the foundational beliefs of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is captured in the Eleventh Article of Faith: "We claim the privilege of worshiping Almighty God according to the dictates of our own conscience and allow all men the same privilege; let them worship how, where, or what they may."

“This principle reminds us that the freedoms we seek for ourselves must also be extended to others. Religious freedom flourishes where mutual respect for the rights and consciences of others prevails.” Elder Godoy stated. He encouraged greater collaboration among legal, civic and religious leaders, noting that societies flourish when governments protect fundamental freedoms and when people work together in pursuit of the common good.

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Religious Diversity as a National Strength

Representing the Government of Mozambique, Professor Josina da Graça, Deputy National Director of Religious Affairs in the Ministry of Justice, Constitutional and Religious Affairs, shared insights on religious freedom from a Mozambican perspective.

Speaking on the relationship between constitutional governance and freedom of religion, she explained that religious freedom is not a privilege granted by government but a fundamental human right protected by Mozambique's Constitution. “Mozambique's diverse religious communities, including Christians, Muslims, practitioners of African traditional religions, Hindus, Jews, Bahá’ís and Rastafarians, live together peacefully and contribute to national unity” she noted.

Professor Simone emphasized that the rule of law and religious freedom are mutually reinforcing principles that support democratic institutions, social cohesion and peaceful coexistence. “At the same time, she stressed that religious freedom does not provide justification for criminal activity or for conduct that infringes upon the rights and safety of others, including terrorism, money laundering, exploitation or abuse.”

She also highlighted the positive role religious organizations play in peacebuilding, humanitarian relief and community development, acknowledging The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints for its contributions in Mozambique, particularly during times of hardship and natural disasters.

The Importance of Associational Autonomy

Professor Sean de Freitas of the University of the Free State explored the relationship between law and religion through the concept of associational autonomy.

Drawing on the principles of subsidiarity and sphere sovereignty, he argued that institutions such as families, churches and community organizations possess their own forms of authority and internal values that contribute significantly to society.

Professor de Freitas cautioned against excessive state regulation and argued that religious and social institutions help shape society's understanding of justice, dignity, equality and the common good. “I honestly encouraged faith communities to remain active participants in public discourse and democratic life while maintaining their independence and identity” he concluded.

Zimbabwe: Constitutionalism Beyond the Written Law

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Providing a Zimbabwean perspective, Rory Wellington, Chair of the J. Reuben Clark Law Society Zimbabwe Chapter, focused on the practical realities of constitutional governance.

“The strength of the rule of law is measured not only by constitutional text but also by the willingness of public institutions to uphold constitutional principles when faced with political pressure” he remarked. Drawing on recent developments in Zimbabwe, Wellington stressed the importance of judicial independence, institutional integrity and freedom of conscience.

While recognizing Zimbabwe's history of protecting religious freedom, he cautioned that constitutional safeguards remain meaningful only when governments and courts consistently apply and defend them. He urged legal professionals and civic leaders to remain vigilant in preserving constitutional rights and the rule of law.

Freedom Requires Individual Responsibility

Concluding the presentations, Lloyd Allen, Area Legal Counsel for the Africa South Area of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, emphasized the personal dimension of religious freedom.

“While constitutions and legal systems provide essential protections, the future of religious liberty also depends on individuals choosing to live with integrity, respect and concern for others,” Allen noted.

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Finding the Balance Between Freedom and Accountability

A moderated panel discussion led by Professor Werner Nel of the University of Johannesburg explored the challenge of preserving religious freedom while ensuring accountability. Throughout the discussions, panelists agreed that religious freedom and accountability should not be viewed as competing objectives. Instead, they emphasized the importance of enforcing existing laws, protecting vulnerable individuals and promoting responsible self-governance within religious communities.

Discussions highlighted the value of ongoing dialogue between government, faith communities, legal professionals and civil society. Participants also emphasized that accountability mechanisms should address genuine harm without unnecessarily restricting legitimate religious practice or diminishing freedom of conscience.

Strengthening Africa's Democratic Future

The conference concluded with a shared commitment to advancing the rule of law, protecting religious freedom and promoting greater collaboration between legal, governmental, academic and religious institutions across Africa.

The J. Reuben Clark Law Society is an international organization of lawyers, judges, legal scholars and law students who recognize the positive influence of faith and personal conviction in the legal profession. Through public service and professional excellence, its members seek to promote fairness, integrity, virtue and respect for the rule of law in communities throughout the world.