 When South Africa became a republic in 1961 , the flag remained the same . The Afrikaner voting majority disliked the flag retaining the Union Jack in the centre . Repeated calls were made for it to be removed or for a new flag but no action was taken by the ruling National Party until 1968 . B. J. Vorster convened a commission in that year to create a new flag in time for the 10th anniversary of South Africa 's declaration of independence in 1971 , but no changes were eventually made . The flag was treated with respect by Afrikaners with daily flag salutes in schools . It was also used as part of celebrations of the inauguration of the State President . 
