Namibia decriminalizes same-sex acts between men in landmark ruling

In a landmark victory for gay rights activists, Namibia’s laws prohibiting same-sex acts between men have been declared unconstitutional.

These colonial-era laws, which included offences such as “sodomy” and “unnatural sexual offences,” were infrequently enforced but perpetuated discrimination against gay men who feared arrest.

Namibia has no laws that criminalize sex between women. However, same-sex marriage remains illegal within the country.

Despite this, same-sex marriages performed abroad are recognized if one partner is not a Namibian citizen.

Following the high court’s ruling in Windhoek, members of the LGBTQ group Equal Namibia celebrated by sharing photos of people embracing in the courtroom.

“Welcome to a new Namibia. A born-free Namibia,” the group proclaimed on social media. The term “born-free” is notably used in South Africa to describe the first generation growing up post-apartheid.

The case was initiated by Namibian activist Friedel Dausab, with support from the British charity Human Dignity Trust.

“It won’t be a crime to love anymore,” Dausab said in response to the verdict. “I no longer feel like a criminal on the run in my own country simply because of who I am.” He expressed his happiness, telling Reuters he was “just happy.”

The United Nations praised the ruling as a “powerful step” towards greater inclusivity, noting it would also enhance access to health services and HIV treatment.

Amnesty International, fearing potential backlash, has called on the Namibian government to ensure the safety and dignity of LGBTQ individuals, highlighting instances of “alarming” and “threatening” rhetoric during the lead-up to the court case.

Namibia, which gained independence from South Africa in 1990 after a long struggle, joins a growing list of African nations repealing anti-LGBTQ laws.

However, South Africa remains the only African country where same-sex couples can legally marry and adopt.

Source-BBC