Police issue rules for protests against same-sex marriage

Namibian Police inspector general Joseph Shikongo has issued conditions to which people planning to protest against the recognition of same-sex marriage in Namibia will have to adhere during planned demonstrations on Friday.

In a letter addressed to protest organiser Shirley Magazi on Wednesday, Shikongo said while the police respect the right to public protest, there is a need to ensure public safety and stability.

“I have reason to believe that the intended peaceful demonstration might create feelings of hostility between different sections of the population or might interfere with peace, stability, and the internal security of the country,” Shikongo stated.

The organisation of the protests has been primarily conducted through certain WhatsApp groups, some of which harbour members espousing anti-gay sentiments and propagating acts of violence and hostility towards sexual minorities.
In his letter to Magazi, Shikongo warned against violence and incitement of violence, including hate speech and vulgar language.

The distribution or carrying of pamphlets promoting hate speech or violence is not allowed and damage to public or private property is strictly prohibited as well.
Shikongo added that subversive utterances against the government’s authority are prohibited.

He said the carrying of weapons, including knives or imitation firearms, is strictly prohibited at the planned demonstrations and anyone found with a weapon will be immediately removed from the protest site and may face legal consequences.

Alcohol consumption is also prohibited as the law against public intoxication will be enforced.
The police will be present at the designated protest locations to maintain order, Shikongo said.

Protests against the Supreme Court’s judgement in which the government was ordered two weeks ago to recognise two same-sex marriages validly concluded outside Namibia are planned to take place in Windhoek and at Rundu, Nkurenkuru, Gobabis, Eenhana and Keetmanshoop.