For LGBTQ Kenyans, court win prompts backlash as threats escalate
Source: Reuters
For LGBTQ Kenyans, court win prompts backlash as threats escalate
Ayenat Mersie
Tue, April 18, 2023 at 3:09 AM EDT
NAIROBI (Reuters) - For Kenya's lesbians and gays, a supreme court ruling allowing the rights body that represents their interests to register as a non-governmental organisation has turned out to be a mixed blessing.
February's ruling in favour of the National Gay and Lesbian Human Rights Commission (NGLHRC) reversed a ban imposed on it by the national board that regulates NGOs, and was welcomed by the commission as a minor affirmation of LGBTQ Kenyans' place in society.
But, in a country where same-sex acts remain punishable by up to 14 years in prison, the ruling has also led to a menacing backlash.
President William Ruto said that, while he respected the supreme court's decision, "it doesn't mean we have to agree with it" - a reaction less hostile than from many other leading politicians.
Meanwhile, NGLHRC activists have reported a surge in threats against the community. ...
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Read more: https://news.yahoo.com/lgbtq-kenyans-court-win-prompts-070955878.html
