South Africa Bans American Pastor Who Condemned Homosexuality

Veronica Neffinger | iBelieve Contributor | Updated: Sep 14, 2016

South Africa Bans American Pastor Who Condemned Homosexuality

A controversial pastor who strongly condemned homosexuality has been banned from South Africa.

CNN.com reports that Pastor Steven Anderson and his associates have been banned from the country because of Anderson’s comments about homosexuality which South Africa’s Home Affairs Minister Malusi Gigaba called “hate speech.”

Anderson made controversial comments after the shooting at a gay nightclub in Orlando. He even went so far as to praise the shooting because it targeted gays.

Although homosexuality is illegal in most African countries, South Africa is among the most progressive.

Gigaba was forceful in his condemnation of Anderson:

"I have identified Steven Anderson and members and/or associates of his church as undesirable persons," he said in a statement.

"I have withdrawn their visa exemption status, enjoyed by all Americans ... on the basis that I am certain they promote hate speech as well as advocate social violence."

Anderson had planned on visiting South Africa this week.

Upon hearing of the ban, Anderson posted a message to Facebook and YouTube, saying he is “sorry for people who live in South Africa.”

He added that he will instead travel to Botswana.

 

Publication date: September 14, 2016



South Africa Bans American Pastor Who Condemned Homosexuality