Botswana Decriminalises Homosexuality with Landmark Ruling

The Botswana High Court has decriminalised gay sex in a landmark ruling for the country, reports the Guardian.

The judges voted unanimouslyto change Section 164 of the penal code which penalises sodomy with up to seven years in prison.

“Any discrimination against a member of society is discrimination against all,”the judges said.

“A democratic nation is one that embraces tolerance, diversity, and open mindedness,” added Judge Lebaru when reading out the judgement. “Societal inclusion is central to ending poverty and fostering shared prosperity.

“Human dignity is harmed when minority groups are marginalised.

“What compelling public interest is there necessitating such a law?”

The challenge to the penal code was made by an anonymous gay man known only by his initials: LM.

“[The laws] limit me to interact with others who identify in the same way for fear of imprisonment,” he said in a written statement to the court.

“We are not looking for people to agree with homosexuality but to be tolerant.”

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