Chitipa church leaders oppose challenge to same-sex law

Church leaders in Chitipa, Malawi, have petitioned against a challenge to the country's same-sex relationships and marriages law, writes Patricia Kayuni.

Chitipa, Malawi - Church leaders in Chitipa, representing the Evangelical Association of Malawi (EAM) and Malawi Council of Churches, have united to petition against the Malawi Law Society and several other civil society organisations (CSOs) challenging the criminalization of same-sex relationships and marriages, writes Patricia Kayuni.

This action comes just a day before the scheduled court hearing on May 23, 2023.

Reverend Leonard Harawa, the Vice Chairperson for EAM in Chitipa, expressed his concerns about legalizing same-sex relationships and marriages, stating, "Such a move will invite the wrath of God upon the nation. God ordained marriage between a man and a woman, and anything contrary to that is an insult in the face of God. Take, for example, the story of Sodom and Gomorrah in the Bible; God destroyed the city because of this forbidden act. It is unfortunate that there are still people who believe this is right. As the church, we say no. We call on everyone who believes in God to pray for Malawi so that we can put an end to this madness."

The petition was received by Macmillan Magomero, the District Commissioner for Chitipa, who affirmed his duty to deliver the petition to the appropriate authorities.

He urged the media to utilise their platforms to ensure that the courts are aware of the church's stance on the matter.

Members of various churches in Chitipa joined their leaders in presenting the petition, carrying placards bearing messages against same-sex marriages.

The church leaders and their congregants aim to make their voices heard and express their opposition to the decriminalisation of same-sex relationships.

The petition represents the church's stance on the issue, emphasizing their belief in traditional marriage as ordained by God.

The court hearing scheduled for May 23 will play a crucial role in determining the legal status of same-sex relationships and marriages in Malawi.