Namibia has been no easy place for many of its citizens for the past couple of years, but since this past March its LGBT citizens have been fleeing for their lives.
The horror reports began last year. Newly graduated police officers were urged to “eliminate” gays and lesbians “from the face of Namibia.” This advice came from the Home Affairs Minister, Jerry Ekandjo, as reported by state television.
His remarks were clarified by Namibia’s President, Sam Nujoma. “The Republic of Namibia does not allow homosexuality, lesbianism here. Police are ordered to arrest you, and deport you and imprison you,” he told University of Namibia students on March 19 of this year.
Given the desolate human-rights situation in the country, where torture and arbitrary arrests are frequently chosen methods of governing, getting out of the line of fire would be anyone’s rational reaction.
Amnesty International-Tanzania reports that “these people fled for their dear life and now they are here in Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania since March of this year. We are concerned about their safety but for the meantime they are in urgent need of relief. They have no food and accommodation. Their situation is really very bad. We are appealing to you so that we may join hands and help them especially during this hour of need.”
Windy City Times has set up an emergency refugee fund and urges its readers to help in whatever way they can. Send donations (checks only) payable to Windy City Times Namibia Relief Fund, and send to Windy City Times, Namibia Fund, 1115 W. Belmont, 2-D, Chicago, IL 60657.