Pretoria – The Department of Home Affair says it is still engaging with the lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, and/or intersex (LGBTI) organisations and other stakeholders regarding the intended visit of United States Pastor Steven Anderson to South Africa.
It said an official announcement will be made after finalising the consultations and having weighed the facts.
Media reports say thousands of people have signed an online petition calling for the department to stop the controversial pastor from entering South Africa later this month. He released a video earlier this week in which he made various comments against Home Affairs Minister Malusi Gigaba.
“The Department of Home Affairs has noted comments and requests for a response on the matters pertaining to US Pastor Steven Anderson and the intended visit to the Republic of South Africa.
“The department is still engaging with the LGBTI organisations and other stakeholders... The basis of our work is on managing comments directed at the LGBTI community and their rights,” said the department.
It added that it would not comment on the “irrational aspersions” that have been directed at Minister Gigaba.
“If we were to react to every insult directed at the minister or the department, then South Africa will indeed become an empty country.
“The department has reaffirmed its unwavering support for the LGBTI community. Our Constitution enjoins us to recognise the injustices of our past, honour those who suffered for justice and freedom in our land, and heal the divisions of the past and establish a society based on democratic values, social justice and fundamental human rights for all,” it said. – SAnews.gov.za
