Activists condemn Burundian president over stoning of gays

Summary:

• Burundian President Évariste Ndayishimiye faces global criticism for advocating the stoning of gay individuals, prompting concerns about the safety of LGBTQ+ communities and violating human rights norms.

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Burundian President Évariste Ndayishimiye has faced strong criticism from activists following his declaration that gay individuals, especially those in same-sex marriages, should be subjected to stoning in a stadium. This statement was made during a public event on December 30.

Ndayishimiye further asserted that any Burundian openly identifying as a member of the LGBTQ community while residing outside the country should not return. Despite receiving substantial backlash and questions about potential consequences, the President expressed indifference, even in the face of potential economic sanctions from other nations.

Burundi’s 2009 penal code already criminalizes LGBTQ identification, imposing up to two years in prison and a fine. LGBTQ activist Kasha Jacqueline Nabagesera in neighboring Uganda condemned Ndayishimiye’s remarks, stating that such statements create a dangerous environment for LGBTQ individuals and their advocates, potentially leading to violence. She urged leaders to be accountable for incitement.

The Burundian Ambassador to Belgium, Thérence Ntahiraja, clarified that Ndayishimiye did not explicitly call for the stoning of LGBTQ individuals and their advocates. However, Ntahiraja emphasized that homosexuality is considered a serious violation of Burundian values and culture.

French MP Marie Lebec expressed regret over Ndayishimiye’s comments, condemning them as a regression of rights and a call for violence against the LGBTQ community. Human Rights Campaign President Kelley Robinson also condemned the President’s remarks, considering them an act of hate that directly threatens LGBTQ lives and could have ripple effects beyond borders.

The international LGBTQ rights organization, All Out, highlighted the danger posed by Ndayishimiye’s violent and anti-LGBT+ rhetoric, emphasizing its impact on individuals in Burundi and its violation of international human rights laws. The organization called for unwavering support for Burundi’s LGBTQ+ community and stressed the need to uphold safety, acceptance, and the right to live without fear for everyone.