Lumumba lecture: EFF should have shown tolerance and canceled lecture

25 July 2023

The GOOD party condemns the Economic Freedom Fighters for proceeding with the public lecture by Professor Patrick Lumumba.

The controversial anti-gay Kenyan academic was invited to give a lecture at UCT’s Sarah Baartman Hall as part of the EFF’s 10-year anniversary celebrations.

Lumumba has publicly supported Uganda’s Anti-Homosexuality Bill.

Since 2013, the Ugandan government has continued its aggressive anti-LGBTQIA+ stance, with laws declaring that any acts “promoting or engaging in homosexuality” could lead to life imprisonment.

An even harsher version of the law was passed in March this year, when the lawmakers agreed that any citizen who identifies as a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, could look at life in prison.

Despite the bill going back to parliament for amendments, Uganda still has one of the world’s most oppressive anti-LGBTQIA+ bills.

In April, Julius Malema stood up publicly, wearing a pride flag, condemning Uganda’s Anti-Homosexuality Bill.

If Malema truly meant “We are with them against the tyrant” then he would not have allowed the lecture to proceed.

The GOOD party stands with the staff and students of UCT that took offense to this lecture taking place on their campus.

LGBTQIA+ rights are human rights, and are universal.

We need constant pressure from our leaders if we are to address a culture that is a breeding ground for hate and persecution.

Unfortunately, Lumumba the man cannot be separated from his views.

The EFF would never have allowed a known racist to speak, even if he was “highly respected in the legal fraternity”.

GOOD once again strongly condemns the decision taken by the EFF.

Issued by Brett Herron, GOOD: Secretary-General & Member of Parliament, 25 July 2023