Kenyans stirred by British High Commission hosting LGBTQ flag

By Catherine Muema Last updated May 22, 2024

British High Commission In Kenya — UK High Commission In Kenya hoists LGBTQ flag alongside other flags.

By Antynet Ford

Kenyans on Social media have continued to criticize the United Kingdom (UK)over the decision by the British High Commission to fly the LGBTQ+flag in Nairobi.

Frustrated by the incident, Kenyan citizens voiced their disapproval on social media saying they will never accept same sex marriage.

“When it comes to LGBTQ, our society will never accept it.”Clement Shikanda expressed his stance.

“Take this agenda elsewhere. You’re trying to impose your beliefs on our society, just like you corrupted our traditional values in the past. It’s appalling.”Dave Ombongi stated.

“This isn’t about human rights; it’s about our society and cultural values. This behavior is not acceptable or tolerable.”Ngengi Magana emphasised.

The act who was publicly posted on X( formerly Twitter) and Instagram marks the second occasion after the new High Commissioner took over.

The rainbow colored flag was flown alongside the UK flag

“No one left behind: Equality, freedom and justice for all. The British High Commission is proudly flying the rainbow flag to mark International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia.” The UK Commission captioned the video.

The flag was flown to coincide with the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia which was last week.

“We know that societies, economies and democracies only thrive when everyone’s rights and freedoms are protected.” The post added.

Diplomatic missions are expected to adhere to the laws and regulations of the host country and to conduct themselves in a manner that respects local customs and sensitivities.

In May 2022, Indonesia summoned the British ambassador to explain the raising of a lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) flag at its embassy in Jakarta, and urged foreign missions to respect local sensitivies following a backlash among conservatives.

Homosexuality is currently illegal in Kenya but the conservative East African country is growing tolerant of same-sex relationships, human rights campaigners have claimed.

Kenya is considering the Family Protection Bill 2023, which could lead to 50-year prison sentences for non-consensual same-sex acts.

Sponsored by Homa Bay Town legislator Peter Kaluma, the bill aims to ban homosexuality, same-sex unions, and LGBTQ activities and campaigns.

It intends to prohibit gay parades, assemblies, marches, and public cross-dressing.

According to the bill, individuals engaging in non-consensual same-sex acts could face imprisonment for a minimum of 10 years and a maximum of 50 years.

Owners of premises used for same-sex relations may be fined $14,000 (£11,000) or serve a seven-year jail term if the bill becomes law.

Last year, the Supreme Court upheld a mid-September 2023 decision to allow the registration of LGBTQ non-governmental organizations, overturning a decade-long dispute with the National Gay and Lesbian Rights Commission, which had been denied registration by Kenya’s NGO Coordinating Board.

The Supreme Court’s ruling earlier last year deemed such discrimination unconstitutional, marking a significant milestone for LGBTQ organizations in Kenya.