President Nangolo Mbumba rejected anti-gay bills proposed by Jerry Ekandjo due to constitutional concerns. Minister Christine //Hoebes outlined that the bills lacked the necessary two-thirds majority and raised legal issues, affirming the government’s commitment to constitutional integrity in legislation.
President Nangolo Mbumba has rejected Swapo parliamentarian Jerry Ekandjo’s proposed private member’s bills aimed at criminalizing same-sex marriage and redefining ‘spouse’ and ‘marriage’. The Minister in the Presidency, Christine //Hoebes, clarified this decision in parliament, highlighting constitutional implications and procedural concerns about the bills that were initially passed by the National Assembly (NA).
Ekandjo expressed frustration over delays from //Hoebes, accusing her of playing ‘cat and mouse.’ However, //Hoebes explained that the bills failed to achieve a two-thirds majority in the NA and raised significant constitutional issues. The proposals sought to impose fines up to N$100,000 and six years’ imprisonment for violations related to same-sex marriage.
Following the transition from former President Hage Geingob, Mbumba assessed the bills to ensure they complied with constitutional requirements and legislative norms. //Hoebes noted, “In considering the bills, the president was concerned about whether they have gone through a proper law-making process.” She emphasized the need for thorough legislative drafting to comply with Namibian standards, stating the president could not endorse bills lacking constitutionality review.
President Mbumba’s rejection of Ekandjo’s anti-gay bills underscores significant constitutional concerns and the necessity for proper legislative procedures in Namibia. The government remains committed to ensuring that proposed laws meet both substantive and procedural constitutional standards, reflecting the country’s legal obligations.
Original Source: www.namibian.com.na
