Obama free to speak on homosexuality, State House says

State House has moved to calm the prevalent debate on homosexuality by claiming that Kenya is a country governed by the Constitution.

In a statement touching on homosexuality, State House Spokesman Manoah Esipisu highlighted the importance of freedom of speech, adding that they cannot dictate what President Obama can or cannot say during his visit to Kenya slated for this month.

“As Kenyans we believe in Freedom of speech. We cannot tell Obama what he can or cannot say during his visit to Kenya,” he said.

Esipisu downplayed the anxiety that has gripped the political leadership over the likelihood that President Obama will push for the legalisation of homosexuality during his visit, saying the debate is inconsequential.

Leaders among them, Deputy President William Ruto, have stated that they will not allow legislations aimed at legalizing same sex marriage to implemented in the country.

Addressing a gathering at AIC Ziwani in Nairobi County, DP Ruto said Kenya is a God-fearing country and will not be lured into embracing same sex marriage.

Speaking after a church service in Gathuki-ini ACK church, Kigumo MP Jamleck Kamau urged US President Barack Obama to respect Kenyans’ culture saying they would not abandon their traditions, which speak against same-sex marriages.

He urged the visiting US president to steer clear of the matter and not force the gay agenda on Kenyans or lobby for their rights when he arrives in the country this month to avoid wrath of Kenyans.

Manyatta MP John Muchiri has also cautioned President Obama against advocating for same sex marriage while in Kenya.

President Obama is expected to visit Kenya, his father’s homeland, this month for the first time since becoming US President.

Obama will be in the country to attend the Global Entrepreneurship Summit (GES) to be held from July 24 to 26 in Nairobi and is also expected to hold talks with Kenya’s President Uhuru Kenyatta on bilateral relations between the two countries.