/ 31 March 2001

PLIGHT OF NAMIBIAN GAYS VEXING

AMNESTY International is concerned that recent statements made by President Sam Nujoma of Namibia may lead to persecution of lesbians or gays. ”The government of Namibia is obliged to fully protect the rights of all its people, including gays and lesbians. Public officials must not incite discrimination, hostility or violence against members of sexual minorities,” said Andrew Anderson, Amnesty International’s program director for Africa. President Nujoma has frequently described lesbians and gays as ”unnatural” and against the will of God. On March 19 he told University of Namibia students that the country would not tolerate homosexuality or lesbianism. ”Police are ordered to arrest you, and deport you and imprison you,” he said. – Reuters