AFRICA’S FIRST GAY POLITICAL PARTY LAUNCHED
An LGBTI political party has been launched in South Africa, the first in Africa. While critics say it may have good intentions, they question if it can work or even secure a single seat in parliament.
It’s not a world first; a handful of LGBTI political parties have been touted internationally and have had limited success.
In 2007, plans were announced to launch the Magi, or “Gay Party” in Israel but it failed to materialise due to lack of support from established LGBTI groups. In the Philippines, after years of opposition, the Ladlad party was allowed to register and actually contested the 2010 elections but failed to earn sufficient votes to make it to parliament.
Here in South Africa, between 1999 and 2005, a dubious organisation called the Gay and Lesbian Alliance (GLA) was run by the notorious Juan Duval Uys and claimed to be the “political voice of lesbigay South Africa”. After immense controversy and damage to the LGBTI community, the organisation – described by many as “one man and a fax machine” – was soundly discredited by LGBTI groups around the country. It also failed to register to contest any elections, despite promises to do so.
Created in May by Nicholas Gregory, a marketing and design executive from Bloemfontein, the GLBTI Party of South Africa certainly seems to be more genuine in its intentions. It aims to represent the interests of the LGBTI community and plans to take part in the 2014 elections on a national level.
The party was borne out of frustration with the apparent lack of action by existing LGBTI groups when it comes to ongoing hate crimes against the community and, more recently, proposals to reverse the constitutional protection of LGBTI people.
Gregory has begun to assemble a team (most of whom, it must be noted, appear to not be involved with mainstream LGBTI groups), has launched a website, and is in the process of registering the fledgling party with the Independent Electoral Commission.
He mentions that there are plans to change the name of the party from GLBTI to LGBTI “to place specific emphasis on the driving power of our nation – the woman”.
Mambaonline asked him why he thinks his party can succeed where others have failed.
Why did you feel it was important to start an LGBTI party?
As many may be well aware, our constitutional rights as LGBTI citizens in South Africa are under threat due to the Traditional Marriages bill. We want to take a stand and secure our democratic freedom and the very constitutional rights that we as the LGBTI have worked so hard to achieve. We feel that by launching a party, a political platform will provide us with the necessary power we require to secure our rights. In addition to this, we also intend on focussing on other areas that affect LGBTI persons on a daily basis, such as the horrific increase in hate crimes, social inequality and discrimination in the workplace.
Why do you think you have the skills or experience to take on this challenge?
I have been an active follower in all spheres of the LGBTI community for several years. I have had a first-hand experience when it comes to the social inequality and discrimination we as LGBTI citizens face in South Africa, and I feel I have the passion and dedication to make a change. I hope to unite the LGBTI community in a common effort to secure our rights.
Some might say that the party’s ambitions are unrealistic. How would you respond?
We feel that with the support of the LGBTI community and the full dedication of our team, we can achieve our objectives. We need to stand together as a community in this dire hour of need.
Do you think you can get sufficient votes to get any seats in parliament?
Based on the previous national elections, where 17.9 million voters participated, in order to get one seat out of the 400 in the National Assembly we require only around 45000 votes. We feel we can do that – and so much more.
So what will be accomplished by just having a seat or two in parliament?
One seat in parliament is one voice to be heard. A dedicated voice to the LGBTI community. One that will stand up for our rights and give the community its undivided attention. No party to date has exclusively done this for our community, for our cause.
How do you anticipate that the party will be funded?
As with most political parties we will rely heavily on public funding by means of donations and fundraising in order to follow out the party’s objectives.
Does the GLBTI Party have a manifesto yet? Does it or will it include all areas of political life or is the GLBTI Party a single issue party?
We are currently in the process of setting up a manifesto that addresses hate crimes. We hope that this will speed up the creation of a hate crimes legislation whereby these crimes can be punishable to the full extent of the law. With regards to the GLBTI Party being a single issue party, the definition of a single issue party remains a relatively grey area. Although our primary focus will be on securing LGBTI rights and equality, we will also focus on other areas such as education, labour and sports.
Do you not think that LGBTI people will prefer to vote for larger sympathetic parties that actually have some power in parliament?
Indeed there will be many LGBTI people who would prefer to vote for larger parties who garner a higher level of power. However, we have an ever-growing support base of LGBTI people, and those who support our cause, and we foresee a bright future for the LGBTI community in South Africa.
What do you think of the ANC and DA’s position on and support for LGBTI issues and concerns?
Although a lot of progress has been made, we feel that if we as a community had the full support from the ANC and DA, our very constitutional rights would never have come under threat. With regards to the Hate Crimes Task Team, which was a bold move in its creation, we would like to see results and action in combating these hate crimes. The incidents of hate crimes continue to rise; just this weekend a lesbian youth, Phumeza Nkolonzi, lost her life in a Cape Town township, many believe that this was due to her being a lesbian. Just last month we saw the loss of young Thapelo Makutle who was brutally murdered in his home in Kuruman. We can no longer stand and watch as these spates of hate crimes increase. We need to put our foot down!
Do you think that the GLBTI Party can attract broader support other than just members of the LGBTI community?
Indeed this is something that we would like, and we hope to see a strong following of not only the LGBTI community, but also of LGBTI supporters. In addition to that, when one part of the constitution comes under fire, there’s nothing saying that this cannot broaden to other areas of our constitution. We as South Africans have worked so hard in creating a free and fair land for all. We simply cannot sit back and watch as we are stripped of these rights.
How representative is the party and are the currently predominantly white faces of the representatives of concern to you?
The party is still in its early stages of formation. We would like to see that we are equally represented, and we hope to achieve this with our representatives nomination campaign which will begin in the next month. We have a large group of multi-racial ground crew who have been responsible for spreading the word of the party, gaining supporters and obtaining signatures for our official Deed of Foundation. In addition to this, the current team of provincial representatives, namely Rudi Holtzhausen, Monique Walker, Aubrey le Roux and Robert Collins, have the drive and ambition to lay the foundation stones in our party’s formation. They believe that they can make a change in the LGBTI community, and by acting in good faith they work together in promoting the party on a national level.
How much experience does the current team have in politics?
We have an ever growing team that have experience in all spheres of politics and LGBTI activism. Of course experience does not equal results without dedication and passion. We feel that the current team of provincial representatives are dedicated to laying the ground work and foundation for the party and its success to come, and we welcome the support of volunteers who share the same vision as us that can contribute into establishing the party.
Recent elections have shown that niche political parties have been dramatically losing support from the electorate…
If one looks at the objectives of these niche parties, you will notice that their spheres of action are very limited, mostly to minority groups and causes that indeed have a great deal of support by the already dominant larger parties. As previously mentioned our cause has been to a great extent put on the back-burner by these larger parties and we feel we can gain support through our entire dedication.
Have you gotten the support/backing of any LGBTI organisations?
We have received an overwhelming amount of support from many key members in several LGBTI organisations throughout South Africa and the world. However, because the political beliefs of the members of these organisations remains divided, we cannot say that any organisation supports us fully. This is up to the individual members of these said organisations. We all have our own democratic freedom to choose which political party we are to align with, and therefore the organisations cannot speak on behalf of all of its members. We have, however, received a lot of negative publicity and flack from a certain gay organisation. We will not let this drop of negativity in an ocean of positivity support crush our spirit.
Do you believe that an LGBTI party can make a real impact in the political sphere? Would you vote for the GLBTI Party of South Africa? Tell us what you think below. (Note: abusive comments will be removed)
Oh yes definitely. This type of representation is defintely fitting in these times and very much overdue. The current representation of the gay and lesbian groups has been vastly misrepresented by the opposition gay group whose claim to fame seems to be somewhat questionable and unconstititional. The efforts of opposition seem to be a selfish inclined minority group who tend to focus the shift or are desperately attempting to spray our culture with their glamour and ‘six pack’ mentality. with this been said it is blatantly true that the organiser or leader of opposotion ‘gay-gang’ membership is enriching only themelves and their alleged sponsors . we dont need another fashion show or glitz and glamour event. we feel that this party will address the many issues facing the homosexual society from the roots upwards. it seems the current ‘leadership’ which is hiding behind the facade of a ‘title’ is over stepping their grounds and feel that they should step aside and let the new generation who wasnt brought up in an apartheid mentality to take over the reigns . it is quite clear that this party is not about to launch a massive ramp or stage event. it is also evident from my research that all the members are well established career orienated ‘generation 2012’ people. its quite shocking to see how the current senior members of this astrocized community have blatantly threatened the party. and my question is why ? upon investigation of the same it seems the current ‘Management’ of most if not all Gay groups in South Africa , one in particular , more than the others seems to be politically grounded with no NGO association. it appears as if the strife is coming from this ‘gallery’. We need the issues behind this emerging society to be rectified as a matter of urgency. it also seems this ‘Show’ as some people call it is getting alot of International attack and drawing negativity at large on South Africa in general. Well done to the GLBTI team. You have thousands of supporters who in light of the dire circumstances are welcomed with open arms.
Hi there ProGLBTI thanks for the comment however this post is not so much about the party as it is for your feelings towards this group… perhaps we should rather stay on track here and discuss the issues raised at the bottom of the interview?
We can always do with fresh input. I would like to progress to a stage where discussion documents on policy could be widely consulted on and that the party fosters a culture of participatory democracy which we so dearly need. It’s still only the start but I look forward to constructive engagement and collaboration.
Seriously- is this a joke?
Nice guys…proud of you and the new LGBTI PARTY
We really don’t need another political party in the mix, all it does is reduces the official opposition in parliament. And the DA is all for gay rights.
Agreed.
What exactly is this party doing for their rights ???? i stand with 1000’s of other people when i say that this group of guys needs recognition and support !!.
I really do not think we need yet another political party to split voters even more. And why would we need a LBGTI party? We moan everyday that we want to be seen as normal citizens and part of society. So why would we separate ourselves even more from society with a party that, even if they get 90% of gay votes, will not have nearly enough power to make any real difference in the lives of people in this country, not only LBGTI people. Of course, as a gay citizen, I would like to see our rights protected and our needs met, but as a SA citizen I know that there are many more equally important issues out there than gay issues that needs to be addressed too. I would rather spend my vote on the DA that has a proven track record of being champions to LBGTI issues, and other issues, and that have enough power to actually do something about it when the time comes. That is just my personal opinion. So “kudos” for trying and may it work out for you guys, but you will not get my vote
Good point on separation.
Finally someone who understands our plight!!! When does this party plan in being finalised in its official registration? It can’t happen soon enough! With our rights under fire and no-one seemingly doing anything about it….. I don’t know, I just I don’t want South Africa to go back into an apartheid mentality! And the LAST thing we need in South Africa is a two party system like the USA. There are so many more parties in the US, but the Democrats and Republicans with their hidden agendas just run the show. Do we need that here?
Ja, divide the opposition… Great idea. Hellen’s got my vote, just makes more sense not to split the opposition…
They’re hardly going to split up the opposition party, but the fact that you all think they are going to do such a great job at doing that for the 1 or two seats they might get in parliament, means you have faith in some degree to what they are trying to achieve. That 1 or two seats is hardly going to make a dent in the DA’s parliamentary presense, but may very well make a huge diference in the way LGBTI people go forward in this country. I have faith they seem like a power bunch which is what we need
@Diego, where do you your brains sit ? maybe a little far up an already used hole.get out of your narrow mindedness, this has nothing to do with opposition towards any one party. its infact more pro GLBTI in all respects.i dont think theyre expecting the
I see no reason why you had to insult my character to make your point, but know that that shows more about YOUR character than mine, so i will not even retort on that. To take your own words, why have a water fountain for sheep and a water fountain for elephants. Why do we need a separate gay party. There are enough ill feelings about gay people out there without adding to the mix. Now do you think that people will accept gays more if we have our own little party? Do you think the straight boere-oompies or hardcore ANC members will want to drink from the same fountain as the gays? Then you are deluded my friend. Dividing the opposition is a fact and a mere question of mathematics. Please explain to me how the 1 seat in parliament will make life better for all LBGTI people in the country more than the 67 DA seats (also being pro-gay-rights??) I’d love to hear it.
This has NOTHING to do with DA. the DA should keep their day job anyway. & agree with you there Jean Garner. @BA , no my friend it appears from the outset that this is no joke.
There are already 6 openly gay MPs in parliament – all DA. And between them many LGBTI issues are addressed. Good luck to the new party. Their voice is welcome. But voters in SA do not vote on single issues. So can’t see a party like this winning more than 5000 to 7000 votes.
If you check someones comment out about single issue parties on their other interview on queerlife, (which this one apparently is not a single issue party – read the interview properly, they said they are in their early stages and plan on including many other areas), this is what Wyat said:
“””Many years ago a group of black people started a fight against white domination in South Africa, their own kind warned that they could not possibly win such a fight….today that very group ended apartheid and is in charge of this country. Their main focus was to afford the same rights for the blacks as the whites had.
They had a single cause! Believed in it! Fought for it! And won a nation over!
Nobody said that this was going to be a red carpet strut to the finish line. This is the beginning of a fight for our cause! I am 100% behind this party, their believe in our cause WILL inspire others to follow!”””
I hope they are gonna get more faces of color! Other than that it looks like a job well done so fa. Wil get my vote these guys (and gurl) looks like they mean biznes, and i dont want my rights turned into a playing game hangin in da balance
apparently their website hasnt been updated yet , but they do u have other colour members…sweet stuff guys !! We are proud of you !!
Racist much. All white on website. And who elected them?
Hi there Guy – just because we have a predominantly white board does not mean that we are racist. We are in our foundation phases and unfortunately not many people of color have been very forthcoming with volunteering to support us. We would REALLY like to see that we will have the support we can get from ALL citizens, not just white. But these guys are dedicated to making a change for your better. And they will stop at nothing to do it. As for who elected them, we are running a nominations campaign for members of the party once we are officiated. We cannot enroll with membership until we are officiated through the IEC. The nomination campaign will begin in a month or so – we welcome you to take part and all members of the party at that time will have an equal vote.
Is this really going to work there are much more issues in the political side than Gay issues. Not even the DA has the power to overturn the ANC how is this going to work. ANC has too much power and control in this country what we really need is a powerful alliances to suppress the ANC not obsess over minor issues.
Agree with that
I hardly call our rights under thret being a minor issue….
This is once again not about the DA or ANC idiot. its about LGBTI rights been represented on a more LGBTI basis !!! wake up !!
The proof will be in the pudding – 2014 is still a long way off and it will cos millions – really (ask any political party). The gay community just does not have that buying power – not for politics. Pride doesn’t even get it. Simple as that.
It’s a small price to pay for our constitutional freedom…
Some sense coming here @Karl *smiley*
Realist sounds more like somebody who thought they were clever in the queerlife interview…wake up n support these guys…they are a brave bunch.
This is a bold move for South Africa! Whats more is that the people who are against these guys obviously don’t care too much for their freedom. I do. BIG TIME. So you guys have my vote!!!!
Personally I think the GLBTI Party is unnecessary. Remember, we are fighting to be equal and not special. I think the whole thing is just divisive and plain absurd. I’d much rather put my vote in a party with a proven track record and actual power to make a difference.
We have gay people in parliament. We have fantastic gay rights organisations bringing us a whole lot of progress. Instead of dividing our efforts, we should focus our energies on parties/organisations that have proven themselves and can make a difference.
Mind you, this guy has no solid experience in law, activism or politics. He has no association with any LGBT organisation or a pro LGBT political party.
I don’t mean to be cynical but this seems incredibly dubious. It’s probably a plot to ripoff the LGBT community and here is why:
“As with most political parties we will rely heavily on public funding by means of donations and fundraising in order to follow out the partys objectives.”
Oh well, we live in a democracy and it’s an individuals prerogative to waste their money and/or vote. Ultimately we all make our own decisions. Here is hoping that will make the right ones.
@user…it seems from your tone.you are anti the rights of LGBTI which is what these people represent. your comments of ‘rip off’ are unfounded and unnecessary. I am a member of Parliament and alreasy can see these guys need our support! This is not an is
That’s where you are wrong. I’m very much gay and I wholeheartedly support LGBT rights. I just don’t believe that having an LGBT party is the way forward in achieving equality and acceptance. In the same way I wouldn’t vote for a party that is specifically set up to fight for a particular race group (even if it’s my own race).
As stated above, we have LGBT rights organisations and mainstream political parties in place doing us a great service and achieving real results. One of the reasons why the gay right movement has been advancing strongly lately is because it is fought as a human rights issue and not simply a matter sexual orientation. Remember; united we stand, divided we fall. We got rid of Apartheid so as we can work together as a country not the other way round.
Another important thing to consider is the gay population. There is no single constituency where gay people are a majority. I doubt that there will be that many straight people voting for a party that is solely LGBT focused. Let’s not forget, as South Africans we also have other issues to consider; security, economy, education, health and so on and so forth.
As I said before, we are a democracy and you can do what you want with your vote, time and money. All I’m asking for the sake of the LGBT community and SA is that you think rationally and thoroughly before making a move.
P.S. I find it difficult taking you seriously as a ‘member of parliament’ when you can’t spell or use correct grammar. Surely you’d agree as a politician that impressions matter.
I am in 2 minds about this. To my amazement I’ve recently discovered that there are so many black Lesbian, Gay and Transgender people out there in SA (far more than whiteys) who need leadership. This leads me to think that we need a party with more representation of race and even with a black leader. It’s rather exciting when thinking about the possibility of our own political party in parliament. Of course the DA has been a champion for Gay Rights and has done a lot for our community but how much exactly is enough? Have we ever had another Political party to compare the DA’s progress to? No. I’d say let’s give this party a chance to prove itself. I’d give them 1 vote but if they mess up it’s back to the DA for me.
agree with you there Carla. there are approximately 1500000 homosexual citizens in South Africa. if they all stand together with this initiative it can work , but with all the bickering and unneccesary opposition , they remain under threat. You guys are doing a remarkable job.i mean did you see what a few of their members went out of their way to do for the latest victims family..come on people open your eyes.
It is worthy to note that it was the ANC who fought and implemented your LGBTI rights. No other party fought for it like the ANC and its supporters. Dont ever forget that. Also – like Manny from the DA said – our lgbti rights were never threatened, it was just a plot by an opportunist group (GAY FLAG of SA – the flag boys who wears outrages clothing and who would do anything for publicity and a bit of free press to increase the flag sales)… Such rights needs to go through the parliamentary processes – and it wasnt even at that level to call it a “Threat”. Sad but true – people and small companies will do anything to get to your money *wink*
The DA Councillor and MR GAY SA was recently embroiled in scandal when it was revealed by Melanie Nathan that there is some sort of agreement to punt the DA for more “gay” votes when Weyers himself does very little to highlight LGBTI causes within his own party. Go to her blog (google it) and and read the full story – Coenie Kukkuk also loves threatening individuals with lawyers` letters should you highlight the truth..
Can we really trust political parties and “career politicians” when all they do is to try to trick us so that they can benefit?
ANY reference to the guy who refers to himself as “the designer of the gay flag of SA” makes my stomach turn – WTF???? Does that qualify him to be a community leader or to comment on kinds of issues???? There are just too many people wanting to make money from us ot who want their moment of fame without having ANY valid credentials.
Not to forget the shady characters like strange drag queens and ex-porn stars and rent boys that are part of the so-called “gay flag of SA” (there is no such thing) entourage. Ok entourage of 6.
You are a sad little man “Terrence”
For The Truth – see the main article now on Mamba regarding the so-called ‘Hate Crimes Task Team’ and you will see Lance Weyer and Coenie Kukkuk were right about that all along.
The article is great in highlighting the problems with the committee, but Mr GAY SA as company nor Lance has been vindicated by it. There is way too many questions surrounding the partnership between MR GAY SA and the DA as a political party. Was it truly a competition or was it already decided that Lance would win to increase the voter base and in turn popularize Mr GAY SA PTY LTD (Coenie Kukkuk)?? Way too many fishy business going on there…
How quick white gay people are to forget who gave them equal rights. The National Party made you outlaws and today you give praise to a DA party who can only dream of a fair and equal society. And now ask yourself again why we will never vote for an umlungu.. You people are a joke ne!
well gay mamba I have news for you lol who in the gay community do you think is trying to help save you african gays from being killed in the town ships being gay in the town ships is a very very hard life coz if you are lesbian or a gay malw in thw township you will be killled why becouse the so called african commuinty says if your gay then you are unAfrican as they say in the african culture coz lost year at gay pride I met a few gay africa gays and they told me ther hard ship stoires of being gay in the township
so gay mamba you can decide to stick and be killed becouse the africabn cultures doesnt allow you to be gay so what i am saying is you can join us or be killed from your commmity and dont think becouse I am white that I dont know what happens to gay people in townships coz I have a lot of contacts and people that I know and every one in the taxi rank in midrand know me very well
tell you what guys hey if you want the ANC to really take all our rights and be discrimanted then you know what be it really so you can decide for your selfs coz ah go buy the new exit gay newspaper and go read in ther on the second page you will read what they are trying to do ok let me go get the news paper and write what it says
in south Africa where gay rights are enshriend in the constition ,There is a fear that we are seening attempts at removing or limiting these rights ,
the congress of tradintion leaders under the chairmanship of ANc mp patekile holomisa haas proposed that the conesttion reveiw commitee review scition 9 of the constation which protects the rights in the many minorities in this conttry in particulor they want the clause preventing sexual discrimintion removed .gay orgainstion inculding the joint working group and the triangel project have issued statements condomming the proposal
The ANC can’t legally change the constitution without a two-thirds majority. Which it currently lacks and will most likely never achieve again. Stop your fear mongering tactics.
The ANC has in fact 65,4% – and with the ACDP and FF+ who disapprove of gay rights, and only one of them, it has its two thirds.
You will definitely have my vote come 2014
i might consider voting but to be honest the lack of representation for people of color in this party is troubling…despite being “in its infancy” i dont see why any gay black, coloured or indian people arent involved during this infancy stage, as im sure there are many who would have been interested had they been approached- as the gay community has many non white activists….. so far its a no from me
Nobody has done for gay rights what teh ANC has done. If it had not been for comrade Simon Nkoli and our constitution as well (and the liberation fight thereof) we would still have had no rights NEVER FORGET THAT. What hs the DA done? Nothing bt PRETEND to have our backs (excuse the pun). This new party – Good idea. Go for it.
Nobdoy will be able to beat the ANC (And the DA can keep dreaming) but this is not what it is about – it is about getting a prty to look after our rights – Yes VIVA ANC COMRADE!! Forever ANC, but let us see what the new gay party brings. It is natural for so many of you to bitch about so many things because you are scared of change adn your comfort zones. That is why whites were so comfortable with apartheid – now after manyyears see how whites have chaged. You will change your minds as well, but give people a chance. Stop being so negative about EVRYONE AND EVERYTHING. Viva the new gay party VIVA!
And that is just where you get it wrong ANC. For you and your comrades it is all about winning, about beating the other party. that is why you couldn’t give a shit about corrupt leaders or people dying of hunger or illness because they have no jobs, and no proper heatltcare. That is all okay, as long as you dont lose to the “white party”. That is why you “WILL NEVER VOTE ANYONE ELSE BUT ANC”. How absolutely narrowminded. It is not a competition to get winners or losers, it is enabling people to have a voice, to have a government to look after them. For all I care, the ANC can stay in power forever. But there should be at least a party with almost as many votes, some gooood competition, that have the power to keep the corrupt in check for fear of losing the top seat, come the next election. Look at America. You are never sure if it is the democrats or republican who will get the top spot. Now that is a healthy democracy, because if you do not perform, like you beloved ANC has done, you are out. If less people were so obsessed with “winning” and as narrowminded about this as you are, then you would have seen your party delivering to the people like no tommorrow. If your beloved ANC thought that they might lose the next election if they do not perform, they would work their asses off for their people. But it is because they know they can always count on dumb asses like you who will vote for them no matter what, that they know they can steal and do whatever they want to. And that is why they are promoting the idea that a DA government will “bring back apartheid” and you believe that crap. They have you all by the shorthair, and you don’t even realise it.
I would like the DA supporters to respond regarding VIVA ANC comments. This time on facts and not fiction. White people are indeed outside of its comfort zones because they were placed in the situation as what the Apartheid government put non-whites in. Talking about living in a sheltered life. Today they are asked to stand in the same queue and to fill out a form and wait your turn – and that’s a big problem you see. How dare you do that? Well – get with the program – the people of South Africa has truly spoken buy way of an election process which set them free from the oppressive system that governed them and if you take umbrage with it – you more than welcome to pack your bags and to go somewhere where you live out your oppressive policies or apartheid lifestyle. We are certainly not chasing you away, but let deserving South Africans make this country better for everyone – don’t always dwell on the neGAYtive because you not the one benefiting. The Freedom Fighters of this country gave you sexual freedom you enjoy – and today you want to use a white-led party who use smokes screens to overthrow the very people that gave you freedom under its current legacy and rule. I wish you all luck.
VIVA ANC VIVA. I will ALWAYS support the ANC, yet open to see what the new gay party has to offer. it is called BEING OPEN MINDED, something MOST of you here do not understand. Why are we even talking about the DA? I can understand that a bunch of conservative white boys from would wanna vote for them, but REALLY? Serias?! LOL
Bull! that is not the first gay political party to be launched in Africa. The GLA was the first to be launched and registered for 5 years since 1997. Whoever compiled this article did not check the facts. SINGLE ISSUE PARTIES LIKE THIS ONE STAND NO CHANGE. As a gay voter Iwill still mark my X with the DA. Never trust single-issue overnight politicians, go with experience and parties who really try to make a difference!
see the main article now on Mamba regarding the so-called ‘Hate Crimes Task Team’ and you will see Lance Weyer and Coenie Kukkuk were right about that all along.
See the language used by their Western Cape representative on his Facebook. Very nice for a “representative” …
Rudi Holtzhausen shared Coleen Vorster’s photo.
15 hours ago
POES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Why GLBTI and not LGBTI (the way it usually is)???? It’s a little confusing…
Good question, first they were only GBLT party then GBLTI and they say that is also going to change.
Question – has the party in fact been registered with the IEC?
I definately think that a party of this nature can real make a difference and not just politically but socially as well. It would allow great acceptance to those who have been marginalised for centuries. I would vote for this party without thinking twice.
@ Brandon Nobody is disputing the fact that the Task team is doing a shitty job, but we (gays in SA) are embarrassed at how The Mr GA SA brand adn lance have misrepresented themselves as so-called ambassadors for GAY SA with the government and how lance s
Against the law! Have you never heard of free speech? There is no investigation and Melanoma could to this day not provide a shred of evidence – further, if you knew how government works, you would know that they can only “investigate” someone who works for them. Other than that, they have to go to the Courts – that is the process. And – they have not done that because they have no case. In fact, as it now seems, Lance was right all along.
Meant to say MINISTER
I wud definately vote for da GLBTI cuz our current party does ntn to make us safe in our own country bt we gt rights dat dnt protect us
I am all for it, we need some change in this country, i will definitely be voting for you, we need a safer country. Please do represent us. We really need this.
Proud of you GLBTI PARTY OF SA. DO NOT LET COENIE KUKKUK TRY AND DESTROY YOU with his inferior bully comments and legal letters. KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK!!!!!!!!!!
Anyone know if this new political party has already done anything for our rights yet? or similar? Or Trying? Just curious. PS Not interested in the mud-slinging etc. Just a question.
As far as I have read this party isn’t registered so it is no party aat all.
ah ok. then why are people so angry?
Precisely because they are misleading the public. They are not even registered yet. If befriended their ‘representatives’ (they are not as they were not elected) and most are a sordid lot. The one attacks people on FB relentlessly, one can not spell to save his life, one has had skirmishes with police in the past, the one is a so-called “model” (NOT!) and seems like an unashamed self-promoter and the “leader” is someone from Bloemfontein whom no-one has heard about? No thank you. Better the devil you know than the one you don’t know.
But Ariel – now you are attacking as well?
Hey brother, you Wil get my vote…but be good….please, don’t talk kak as those people who had make bad or racist comment here on mamba…..by the way are you single? Rough politician dressed up in black…is a wow..
i think it should have joined a party like the DA cos now your just splitting the vote and sadly there more homophobes then gays or gay supporters so i think its a waste of everyones energy like the christiaan party they should dump there party and join forces with a bigger party so that we can take the vote away from the ANC
That Eastern Cape rep of theirs is seriously dodge. Saw it at the Pink Loerie – ouch!
Lgbti polarity. I would vote for it if, after reading their manifesto they were left enough for me … Which is essential in my voting decisions …..
Lgbti polarity. I would vote for it if, after reading their manifesto they were left enough for me … Which is essential in my voting decisions …..
a new start in peoples life. Let this partly develop and listen to the needs of all gays there outside.