Second-class citizens’? Namibia rules against gay couples

 | 
01/20/2022

WINDHOEK, Jan 20 (Reuters) – Namibia’s High Court ruled on Thursday against two gay couples fighting for recognition of their marriages, with the judge saying she agreed with them but was bound by the nation’s prohibition of same-sex relations. Like Namibia, many other African nations still ban same-sex liaisons, with couples risking jail and public scorn. Daniel Digashu and Johan Potgieter had married in South Africa, and Anette Seiler-Lilles and Anita Seiler-Lilles in Germany – but both couples now live in Namibia. Digashu, a South African, and German-born Anita Seiler-Lilles had applications for a work permit and residency denied respectively based of their same-sex marital status. In court, they argued that the word “spouse” in Namibian immigration law should include same-sex couples or the clause be declared unconstitutional. Judge Hannelie Prinsloo said she agreed but was bound by a more than 20-year-old Supreme Court ruling saying Namibia does not recognise same-sex relationships. “Only the Supreme Court can correct itself,” she said, adding it was high time the constitution reflected social reality.

Regions: ,

Share this:

Latest Global News

Added on: 11/24/2024
11/23/2024
For the first time, scientists have identified genetic variations associated with human bisexual behavior — and found these markers are linked to risk-taking and …
Added on: 11/24/2024
11/23/2024
Cello music filled a sanctuary here on Wednesday night as the audience clutched blue or pink carnations in honor of Transgender Day of Remembrance. …
Added on: 11/24/2024
11/23/2024
Disturbing social media videos have revealed four young men being beaten and degraded by a mob in the Nigerian city of Benin, highlighting the …

Explore LGBTQ+ Issues

Other News from ,

Added on: 11/24/2024
Disturbing social media videos have revealed four young men being beaten and degraded by a mob in the Nigerian city of Benin, highlighting the …
Added on: 11/23/2024
The Ghana Supreme Court has set Dec. 18 as the date when it will rule on whether the harsh anti-LGBTQ bill that Parliament passed …
Added on: 11/22/2024
The Vatican has blocked discussions over women’s rights at the UN climate summit following a row over gay and transgender issues, sources have told …