Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa has opposed the move to allow members of the LGBTQ community to form associations and Non-Governmental organizations.
Barasa clarified that the religious doctrines in the country only allow for heterosexual marriages, faulting the Supreme Court for the latter decision.
“As leaders in government and in church, we oppose the legalization of homosexuality because it goes against the teachings of the Bible. We know the stand by the church in our country and we should not go against that,” Barasa said.
Barasa was speaking when he attended a church service at Eshianda Church of God, Ingotse Mission in Butsotso South Ward, Lurambi constituency.
Three weeks ago, the courts reaffirmed the decision made in February which allowed the formation of LGBTQIA-related associations.
The courts pointed out that all persons, whether heterosexual, lesbian, gay, intersex, or otherwise will be subject to sanctions if they contravene existing laws.
“As long as Sections 162, 163, and 165 of the Penal code remain valid edicts of the law, then the appellant could not have reserved a name or allowed the formation of an association with the very terms that imply or whose declared purposes are in support of actions that are against the law or expressly banned by it,” Justice Mohammed Ibrahim said in the ruling.
Barasa added that the ruling might have gone against the normal dynamics, especially in the religious sector of the country.
“We are a God-fearing country and we want to preach responsible living, not homosexuality. I support our national leaders who have expressed their reservations over this sensitive matter,” he said.
This, even as Homa Bay Town MP Peter Kaluma sponsored the Family Protection Bill 2023 which proposes a ban on homosexuality, same-sex marriages, and any hint of LGBTQ activities and lobbying.
If the Bill sails through, owners or persons in charge of premises used for same-sex acts will also part with a Sh2 million fine or a jail term of as long as seven years.
“A person who engages in a sexual act with a person of the same sex without the consent of the other person shall upon conviction be sentenced to imprisonment for a term of not less than 10 years and not exceeding 50 years,” the Bill reads.
