No employer, family member, or community leader may tell you how to vote or threaten you for your political choices.
FreeChapter 2 — Bill of RightsConstitution of South Africa, 1996
The Constitutional Text
What Section 19 Says
(1) Every citizen is free to make political choices, which includes the right— (a) to form a political party; (b) to participate in the activities of, or recruit members for, a political party; and (c) to campaign for a political party or cause. (2) Every citizen has the right to free, fair and regular elections for any legislative body established in terms of the Constitution. (3) Every adult citizen has the right— (a) to vote in elections for any legislative body established in terms of the Constitution, and to do so in secret; and (b) to stand for public office and, if elected, to hold office.
What This Means for You
Plain-Language Explanation
Practical Significance
No employer, family member, or community leader may tell you how to vote or threaten you for your political choices.
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Can my employer tell me how to vote?
No. Section 19 gives every citizen the right to make their own political choices, including how they vote. An employer who pressures, threatens, or penalises an employee for their political views or vote commits an unconstitutional act and an unfair labour practice.
Is my vote secret?
Yes. Section 19(3)(a) explicitly guarantees the right to vote in secret. No employer, family member, or community leader may demand to see your ballot or how you voted.
Knowing the right is step one. The Advocate trains you to use it — 149 real South African scenarios with exact rebuttals, law references, and Scripture. Free to start.