South African court rules for same-sex couples

Same-sex partners are entitled to the same financial benefits as heterosexual couples, South Africa's highest court ruled Monday. The Constitutional Court decision upholds a High Court ruling in July that found Kathy Satchwell, herself a High Court judge, eligible to receive the same benefits for her lesbian partner that heterosexual judges receive for their spouses, state radio reported. South Africa's constitution prohibits discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation. Willie Knoetze, of the Gay and Lesbian Equality Project, said the organization is delighted with the ruling. "We are very pleased with the court's decision because it is in line with our objectives of a free and fair South Africa," he said.