The kingdom of Tonga is set to formally ban same sex marriage.
Radio New Zealand reports that Chief executive of Internal Affairs Lopeti Senituli says the government is planning law changes to satisfy Tongan church leaders calling for a ban on same sex marriage.
“Under our existing Deaths, Births and Marriages Registration Act there is no specific reference for or against same sex marriage. The government is proposing now that we amend our Deaths, Births and Marriages Registration Act to prohibit same sex marriage.”
Mr Senituli says any ratification will include reservations or conditions to allow for cultural considerations such as same-sex marriage, abortion, the royal succession and noble titles.
GLBT Tongans have little rights. Homosexuality still remains illegal with a punishment of up to 10 years in prison.
Article | Levi Joule
