Homosexuals 'a no for Uganda'

2007-11-23 14:45

Kampala - Scores of anti-gay activists protested in Uganda on Friday minutes after Britain's Queen Elizabeth II opened the summit of Commonwealth heads of state.

Demonstrators accused western countries of helping to spread the practice on the African continent.

The biennial conference, which was being attended by 48 heads of state and government representatives from the 53-nation club of countries formerly under British rule, would examine the issues of governance, human rights, environment and development.

The Ugandan government allowed officially demonstrations to be held in two places near the city centre. Several groups including the opposition and anti-gay pressure groups had taken part in the peaceful protests.

'Homosexuals need the truth'

One organiser of the rally, Pentecostal Pastor Solomon Male, said: "Homosexuality is growing in Uganda and Africa in general. Some of our people are thriving on funding from gay activists from western nations."

Led by religious leaders, university undergraduates in red gowns and married women held aloft placards reading: "Do not lie with a man as one lies with a woman. Homosexuals need the truth to set them free."

The lesbian and gay population in Uganda was not known, but the numbers were believed to be increasing. However, many feared that if they "come out" they will be attacked.

"We are living in a global village as Commonwealth member states. Developed countries in the Commonwealth legalised homosexuality and influenced the poor states," said Interfaith Rainbow Coalition Against Homosexuality in Uganda, which consisted of religious groups in the country.

It added: "We are telling the queen that by embracing homosexuality, we shall not have kings and queens, a statement from the anti-gay group."

Sapa-dpa

- SAPA