Pretoria – The Government has called on members of the public and organisations to refrain from altering or distorting the prescribed design of the South African National Flag.
The government’s call discouraging the altering of the national flag follows a report in The Bulrushes regarding a demonstration organised by the Christians United for Africa (CUFA) and the South African Friends of Israel (SAFI),
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“The national flag and other national symbols represent the country’s identity, sovereignty, and constitutional democracy,” the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) said on Monday, 2 November 2026.
“They are unifying symbols belonging to all South Africans, and as such everyone has a role to play to uphold, respect and preserve their integrity.
“Government has noted an altered flag combining elements of the South African National Flag with Israel’s Star of David.”
The flag was displayed during a public demonstration by church groups outside Parliament on Friday, 30 October 2026.
“Government reiterates that the South African National Flag is not an interchangeable emblem or a design that should be modified,” the GCIS stated.
“Its design and colours form part of the country’s official national identity and should not be altered or compromised.”
The GCIS said the protection of South Africa’s national symbols is underpinned by the constitutional and legislative framework governing their recognition, use and display.
The National Flag’s prescribed design is set out in Schedule 1 of the Constitution, while Government Notice 510 of 2001 provides instructions for its appropriate use and treatment.
These provisions underscore the importance of preserving the integrity, dignity and official identity of the country’s national symbols.
“This means that the official national flag is constitutionally defined, and any altered version cannot replace or be represented as the official national flag,” GCIS said.
“Government emphasises that while individuals and organisations may express their views and convictions through lawful means, this should not come at the expense of the integrity of the country’s national symbols.
“The use of an altered flag should not create the impression on South Africa’s fundamental position on geopolitical matters, or that it represents the official national flag of South Africa.”
All South Africans are urged to act as custodians of the country’s national symbols by respecting their prescribed forms, the GCIS said.
The protection of national symbols is an important part of preserving the country’s national identity, promoting social cohesion and fostering respect for the constitutional values that unite the nation.
CUFA and SAFI have not responded to the matter.
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