Staff Reporter
DR. Shirley Magazi, a well-known preacher and businesswoman, said today that the recent Supreme Court ruling directing the government to recognize same-sex marriages conducted abroad has undermined the sovereignty of Namibia. She called on Members of the National Assembly to reverse the ruling through legislative change.
Dr. Magazi made these remarks during a press briefing organized by the Namibia National Anti-Gay Marriage Demonstration movement, a coalition of churches leading the campaign against the ruling. The movement is planning a national protest on June 2, 2023. However, the Namibian police have said that they have not yet received an application from the group to hold the nationwide demonstration against the recognition of same-sex marriages in the country.
The movement has gained support and formed several WhatsApp groups, gathering up to 3,500 signatures for their petition. The group aims to reach 100,000 signatures.
“Namibia is a sovereign nation, and our constitution is the supreme law. As a sovereign nation, we cannot uphold the constitutions of other jurisdictions or adopt other countries’ views, opinions, and agendas. Namibia’s sovereignty must be respected,” Dr. Magazi said. “The ruling undermines Namibia’s sovereignty. Article one of the constitution states that all powers shall be vested in the people. We, the people, must decide how we are to be governed in this nation.”
Dr. Magazi added that the Christian coalition of churches has called on the National Assembly, the representatives of the Namibian people, to overturn the ruling based on the views they hold.
She further emphasized that Namibia is a tolerant nation and that the group will never incite violence against individuals based on their sexual preference. However, she strongly condemned the recruitment of young children into the LGBTQI+ movement, stating, “These are our children, the future of our nation. The Namibian nation, including our legislature, executive, and judiciary, has a duty to protect the children of Namibia. As mothers and fathers, we will not allow this. Protect your children. We will not accept this,” Dr. Magazi said.
