Self-proclaimed Liberian gay activist Archie Ponpon, and few followers were Thursday narrowly hustled out of the premises of a local radio and television station by Police Support Unit (PSU) officers of the Liberia National Police (LNP) in Monrovia, after over 500 members of the public had besieged the vicinity of the radio station to attack him for his pro-gay campaign.
Ponpon and his group had appeared on an early morning talkshow to defend their activism for the legalization of same sex marriage in Liberia.
According to bystanders, the manager of the radio station swiftly called in the police to protect members of the group due to the presence of a huge crowd that could not easily be contained by private security guards.
Most ordinary Liberians, who opposed same sex marriage, have reportedly issued threats against both gay activists and lawmakers, warning them of serious consequences should gay and lesbian marriages be legislated.
But the activists headed by Ponpon, are insisting that same sex marriage should be legislated to avoid those engaging in the practice hiding their identities for fear of being harmed by angry citizens.
The advocacy has always encountered harsh responses and condemnations from most Liberians, who argued that the legalization of same sex marriage could worsen immoralities in the country.
Most Liberians from diverse backgrounds also expressed fears that accepting such immoral practice in the country will be against their culture and would offend religious doctrines.
This is the third time that Ponpon has been rescued by police from angry crowd. He escaped attacks twice from angry students on the campus of the University of Liberia.
by Winston W. Parley
Source – all Africa
