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The Botswana Movement for Democracy (BMD), a member of the African Liberal Network (ALN) and subsequently Liberal International, is thrilled by the Republic of Botswana High Court judgement in which today, a bench of three judges repealed Sections 164 (a) (c), 165 of the Penal Code. The High Court found the repealed sections, which were prohibiting intercourse and ultimately love and affection amongst persons of the LGBTiQA++ community, to be contrary to the constitution of the land, and as such being discriminatory.
This High Court judgement is not only a historical and landmark ruling to Botswana, but a guidance and advisory to the continent and the whole world, especially those countries which continue to criminalise the freedoms of LGBTiQA++ persons. This judgment should also be a reminder that work places, employers, schools, families, social hubs and public places should respect human rights.
Whatever justification was used to degrade the dignity and humanity of fellow citizens, was in itself an illogical thought process.
In response to the judgement, BMD National Spokesperson & Head of Strategic Partnerships, Rasina Winfred Rasina had this to say:
“We at the Botswana Movement for Democracy (BMD), together with our sister parties at the African Liberal Network and global Liberal International family, shall continue to speak against the criminalisation of those liberal values that we believe are essential to human harmony. We shall continue to speak against discriminatory laws.
Here in Botswana, we thank and congratulate LEGABIBO, BONELA, Human Rights lawyers, donors and activists who worked tirelessly to ensure that the outcome of the matter is resounding, liberal and humane”.
