A coalition of 25 African and diaspora faith leaders, academics and civic thinkers has called on African governments to suspend moves to introduce additional criminal legislation concerning sexual orientation and gender identity, urging wider public dialogue and consultation.
The group made the call during the virtual launch of the African Democratic Covenant, a coalition advocating what it described as an African-led approach to democracy, constitutionalism, human dignity and social justice.
The Covenant urged African presidents to place a moratorium on proposed legislation that would introduce additional criminal penalties, arguing that governments should instead create space for public education, constitutional dialogue and broader consultation.
Speaking at the virtual event, Bishop Joseph W. Tolton, Lead Executive of Interconnected Justice, said the initiative was not an attempt by Africans in the diaspora to ‘help’ the continent but a call for Africans at home and abroad to work together in shaping Africa’s future.
Rev. Canon Mpho Tutu van Furth called for the inclusion and protection of all members of African communities, while urging Africans to re-examine historical and traditional understandings of gender and social diversity.
Prof. Sylvia Tamale questioned the assumption that legislation supported by a majority is necessarily just. She cited historical examples, including apartheid and segregation, to argue that majority support alone should not determine questions of rights and justice.
Tamale also called for greater attention to indigenous African histories as well as the political and economic factors shaping contemporary debates on gender and sexuality.
Emerita Prof. Akosua Adomako Ampofo urged journalists to avoid sensational reporting on the issue and instead examine the political arguments, legislative provisions and potential implications of proposed laws.
Florence Nyaoke of Kenya said political and religious leaders were sometimes presented with incomplete information about proposed legislation. She argued that this could deepen polarisation and restrict opportunities for informed public discussion.
The coalition said its broader African Reconstruction agenda would focus on economic sovereignty, spiritual self-determination, constitutional pluralism and human dignity.
It also announced plans for a Desmond Tutu Conference, described as a Black Global Freedom Gathering, where African and diaspora leaders are expected to discuss democracy, economic inequality, resource extraction and social justice.
The organisers said the broader initiative was intended to encourage discussion about the relationship between democratic development, national sovereignty and laws affecting particular groups.
They said the campaign would provide a platform for Africans on the continent and in the diaspora to examine how constitutional principles, human dignity and social justice should feature in contemporary African governance.
The coalition maintained that wider consultation and informed public debate were necessary as governments consider new legislation in this area.