The LGBTQIA community held protests over remarks by Education Cabinet Secretary Prof George Magoha on queers students.

During the demonstrations on Thursday, January 13, the queer community took to the streets of Nairobi condemning Magoha’s directive to ban LGBTQIA students from attending boarding schools in Kenya.

They argued that Magoha’s statements were a threat to equality, endangered students, and was tantamount to depriving them of their basic right to education.

The protesters who marched to the Ministry of Education offices argued that since most learners are under the age of 18, the Constitution regards them as minors who should not be discriminated against.

Activists, who led the protests, added that the CS’s remarks were reckless and could create division among members of the public.

“Today we march to Magoha’s office, protesting against discrimination of queer kids in school following prejudiced remarks by the CS. 

“His directive not only bars queer kids from getting quality education but also propels negative attitudes, stigma and discrimination of queer kids. Queer rights are human rights,” a statement by Bold Network Africa read.

CS Magoha ignited debate after warning that students engaging in homosexuality will be barred from boarding schools.

“Right now, there are contemporary cases of children who are homosexual and lesbians, they must go to day schools close to their homes.

“Your responsibility should be for the greater majority and not a few individuals. Do not allow yourself to be intimidated by children,” CS Magoha stated.

His remarks were condemned by Kenya Human Rights Commission (KHCR) Chairperson Prof Makau Mutua who opined that he was victimizing students.

“CS Magoha is a bigot. To bar gay children from boarding schools is unconstitutional, discriminatory, and inhuman. We must love all our kids no matter their sexualities,” Prof Makau Mutua stated.