Mogae refuses to be Homophobic

Lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBTI) community in Botswana has commended former Botswana President Festus Mogae for condemning some of the attitudes of African leaders towards homosexuals.

In a recent interview with Africa Renewal on 15 January 2016, Mogae reiterated his activism on access to HIV prevention, treatment, care and support for criminalised populations that include men who have sex with men by calling on African leaders to be more open minded, informed and embrace differences.

Mogae stated that it is a shame and embarrassment for a leader to make hateful public utterances towards fellow human beings let alone pick and choose which sector of the community to protect and or discriminate against.

The LGBTI said about the interview: “We would like to affirm his wise words that ‘leadership is not about you as a leader, but about the people that you lead; leadership is impartial and leaders across Africa and the world should take heed to this advice. We appreciate forward thinking leadership and we would like the current Botswana leadership to take this advice into consideration while making public utterances about homosexuality to be non- discriminatory and non-stigmatising.”

The Botswana LGBTI community expressed its appreciation for Mogae’s continued advocacy for the repeal of discriminatory laws. “Although we appreciate the argument that these laws are inherited from colonial masters, we would like to acknowledge the Botswana Government’s continued efforts to reform laws to be more inclusive of the emerging populations,” said LGBTI in the position paper.

The LGBTI community said they join the former president in calling on traditional and religious leaders including African leaders to be selfless in their leadership, and urged them to inform themselves so that they are well equipped in making decisions and public pronouncements with the aim of protecting the marginalised communities.

“ We call upon our leaders to join Mogae in the fight for non-discrimination, building tolerance and acceptance towards the LGBTI. The Botswana LGBTI community pledge support of Mogae’s activism and commit to working with more leaders in building a tolerant nation.”