Kenyan lawmakers have backed a motion seeking severe punishment for proponents and practitioners of same-sex relationships (LGBTQ).
Nyali MP Mohamed Ali proposed the motion, which seeks to prohibit public debate on lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex, and queer (LGBTQ) issues.
During the debate, MPs called for stringent laws to punish those who propagate or practice LGBTQ, with National Assembly Deputy Majority Leader and Kilifi North MP Owen Baya advocating for stiffer penalties. However, Baya cautioned against the motion, saying it would amount to double legislation as the constitution is already clear against same-sex relationships.
Ali proposed a ban on speaking, publishing, and disseminating information on LGBTQ, citing Article 33 of the Constitution. Baya noted that while homosexuality is against family values enshrined in law, the Constitution has already outlawed same-sex relationships.
Also Read: Not in Kenya- Ruto Speaks on LGBTQ Ruling by Supreme Court
Meanwhile, Nakuru East MP David Gikaria argued that the motion aims to punish those who propagate LGBTQ values in society, saying that it seeks to provide tough sentences for those who practice same-sex relationships.
Kitui South MP Rachel Nyamai backed the motion, saying stiffer penalties should be imposed on those circulating information in support of LGBTQ and those who practice same-sex relationships.
Luanda MP also condemned the dissemination of information on LGBTQ, saying that the county should not allow it, just like God destroyed the Biblical Sodom and Gomorrah over immorality. Malindi MP Amina Laura backed the motion, saying the country’s values, culture, and traditions frown upon same-sex relationships.
Ali will now draft a bill that will be brought to the House as MPs seek to anchor their views in law. Article 33 (2) of the Constitution stipulates that the right to freedom of expression does not extend to propaganda for war, incitement to violence, hate speech, or advocacy of hatred. Advocacy of hatred constitutes ethnic incitement, vilification of others, or incitement to cause harm.