Emmanuel OchayiBurundi’s President, Evariste Ndayishimiye, has sparked outrage and drawn global attention after unleashing a diatribe against same-s3x relationships, advocating the public stoning of LGBTQ+ individuals in the conservative Christian nation.
In a public address in the east of the country, Ndayishimiye declared, “I think if we see these kinds of individuals in Burundi we should put them in a stadium and stone them. And it would not be a sin for those who do.”
Join our WhatsApp ChannelHis condemnation extended to Western nations that push smaller countries to recognize gay rights, stating, “Let them keep their help, let them keep it,” as he rejected the pressure often tied to foreign aid.
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Ndayishimiye, a Catholic, described same-s3x marriage as an “abominable practice,” doubling down on Burundi’s stance against homos3xuality, which has been illegal since 2009 with penalties of up to two years of imprisonment for consensual same-s3x acts.
The President’s stance aligns with the broader sentiments in many East African countries where homos3xuality is criminalized, and discrimination against LGBTQ+ communities is prevalent, often fueled by conservative religious beliefs.
This strong stance echoes recent events in Uganda, which adopted stringent anti-LGBTQ+ legislation, prompting backlash from rights groups and Western powers.
The response included the US removing Uganda from a key trade deal and imposing visa restrictions, while the World Bank suspended new loans.
In Burundi, Ndayishimiye’s tenure, despite initially receiving international praise for steering the nation out of isolation, has been marred by a dismal human rights record.
The President’s failure to address these issues has drawn criticism, with the country still grappling with poverty and a climate of oppression, especially against marginalized communities.
The President’s words and policies have prompted concern among human rights groups and advocates, underscoring the ongoing challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals in the region amid persistent repression and discrimination.
Emmanuel Ochayi is a journalist. He is a graduate of the University of Lagos, School of first choice and the nations pride. Emmanuel is keen on exploring writing angles in different areas, including Business, climate change, politics, Education, and others.
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