Tanzania: Politicians call for the emasculation of homosexuals

Dar AISalaam

Mary Chatanda, leader of the women’s wing of Tanzania’s ruling party, has called for the castration of homosexuals. During the celebrations marking the second anniversary of the founding of the government of Tanzanian President Samiya Sulu Hassan, the politician said, “We call on the government to severely punish crimes related to homosexual activities. These people should be castrated if found guilty.”

Chatanda is considered a hardcore conservative. However, she is not the only politician in the ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi party who has drawn attention with homophobic statements – like former President John Magufuli, for example. Five years ago, a call from a regional official in Dar es Salaam caught the world’s attention after he put together a task force to screen gay men. At first, President Hassan did not comment on Chatanda’s remarks.

situation in other countries

Homosexual acts are prohibited in the East African country. Those convicted face several years in prison. The climate for gays and lesbians has also worsened in other countries in the region. The Ugandan parliament is currently debating the reintroduction of an anti-gay law. In early March, Kenyan President William Ruto criticized a Kenyan Supreme Court decision that strengthened the rights of LGBTQ+ groups. According to the president, homosexuality has no place in Kenya. LGBTQ stands for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer Persons.

According to Human Rights Watch, the situation for the LGBT community in Tanzania deteriorated dramatically under Hassan’s predecessor, John Magufuli.

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