Thanks KU chiefs, Cedep on gays

Dear Editor,

In The Nation of November 11 2013, there was a story titled ‘Chiefs want homo laws reviewed.’ When I read the story, I was delighted to see a positive statement and support coming from the chiefs of Kasungu on the issue of homosexuality.

Traditional Authority Chidzuma said homosexuals are just like anybody else and have the right to live freely in the country.  Another chief added that while we wait for government to sort the matter out, it is important that authorities support those who are homosexuals due to their circumstances such as prisoners.

What the chief is saying is that homosexuality exists in prisons based on male prisoners being locked up with each other. Although I agree partly with this view, I will add that prison does not make one turn to homosexuality. The feeling or sexual identity was already a part of these individuals in their private lives, and being in prison has exposed their identity due to a lack of privacy.

In response to the fact that gays are just like anyone else, I will also add that the statement is true. However, gays are great assets to their communities as they are some of the most articulate, artistic, creative, educated and talented people of our society. Whether it be music, art, architecture, apparel design, medicine or law, gay men and women are by far recognised as some of the most successful.

I hope government will take a serious look at this law which has isolated Malawi and could further isolate the country from the international community and hinder development.

Some of the highest income-earning households in the USA are same-sex partners. With such a bad archaic law that violates human rights on the books in Malawi, the country is in a position to be shunned by most other countries as well as enlightened and educated people whether homosexuals or heterosexuals.

Concerned educated resident.