Minister of environment, forestry, and tourism Pohamba Shifeta says he is not part of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and intersex (LGBTQI+) community.
“I’m not involved and somebody claims that I’m part of them. Why do you have to tell people I’m part of you, while I have never even spoken to you?” he asks.
Shifeta says sodomy is unlawful and that the police should arrest those who publicly admit to being part of the community.
In an audio circulating on social media, the minister says he is accused of being part of the LGBTQI+ community, which he vehemently denies.
“I did not want to go to that extent because they challenged me. I’ll challenge them back.
“You know we are not happy. It’s only that we respect them, but if they don’t respect other people’s dignity, I will fight back,” he says.
Shifeta says he will fight “tooth and nail” to ensure any law to repeal the sodomy law is not approved.
In an age of information overload, Sunrise is The Namibian’s morning briefing, delivered at 6h00 from Monday to Friday. It offers a curated rundown of the most important stories from the past 24 hours – occasionally with a light, witty touch. It’s an essential way to stay informed. Subscribe and join our newsletter community.
The Namibian uses AI tools to assist with improved quality, accuracy and efficiency, while maintaining editorial oversight and journalistic integrity.
Stay informed with The Namibian – your source for credible journalism. Get in-depth reporting and opinions for
only N$85 a month. Invest in journalism, invest in democracy –
Subscribe Now!
