Four women aged between 22 and 29, are in police custody in Lusaka, after being arrested for promoting homosexuality during a march that was supposed to be against gender-based violence, Zambian police say.
The women’s rights activists are being charged with giving false information to public officers and unlawful assembly, police spokesperson Danny Mwale said in a statement.
The Zambian government has pointed out that the march which was part of activities for International Women’s Day, was used to “champion an illegal and criminal cause.”
It condemned what it said was the “irresponsible” behaviour of those in attendance, who had chanted and carried placards “in support of homosexuality”.
Same-sex relationships are outlawed in the conservative southern African country and punishable by up to 14 years in jail.
“Government wishes to remind the public that as a Christian nation, they have a duty to uphold the Christian values of morality, decency, and human dignity,” government spokesman Chushi Kasanda said in a statement.
The suspects, who are in police custody, “will appear in court soon” the Police indicate.
Found this article interesting? Join our community of readers HERE