African Coalition Calls for Halt on Criminalization Laws

A coalition of 25 African and diaspora faith leaders, academics, and civic thinkers has called on African governments to suspend the introduction of further criminal legislation concerning sexual orientation and gender identity. This appeal was made during the virtual launch of the African Democratic Covenant, which advocates for an African-led approach to democracy, constitutionalism, human dignity, and social justice.

The coalition urged a moratorium on proposed legislation imposing additional criminal penalties, advocating for public education and broader consultation instead. Bishop Joseph W. Tolton, Lead Executive of Interconnected Justice, emphasized collaboration between Africans at home and abroad.

Rev. Canon Mpho Tutu van Furth called for the protection of all community members, while Prof. Sylvia Tamale highlighted the need to consider indigenous African histories. The coalition also announced plans for a Desmond Tutu Conference to discuss democracy, economic inequality, and social justice.