Kenyan Bisexual Man Faces Deportation from Canada, Fears LGBTQ+ Persecution in Kenya

Charles Mwangi, a 48-year-old Kenyan national, faces imminent deportation from Canada, scheduled for August 25, 2024.

Mwangi, who identifies as bisexual, asserts that his return to Kenya would place his life in jeopardy due to his sexual orientation. He sought refuge in Canada in 2019, fleeing persecution in his home country. In a plea made through the Migrant Workers Alliance, Mwangi expresses his fear of returning to Kenya where he believes he risks execution. He cites recent developments in Kenya, where lawmakers are considering implementing punitive laws against homosexuality, similar to those enacted in neighboring Uganda.

These potential laws, according to Mwangi, could result in the execution of individuals like himself. To contest his deportation, Mwangi and his supporters organized a protest outside a Toronto Member of Parliament's office. During this demonstration, he presented a petition bearing 2,000 signatures, urging authorities to halt his deportation. Mwangi has also applied for permanent residency on humanitarian grounds, though he notes that this process takes time and does not prevent his impending deportation.

The Migrant Workers Alliance reports that Mwangi has been an active community member, working on the frontlines during the COVID-19 pandemic as a personal support worker. He currently provides care at two Toronto shelters, serving both youth and adults.

In Canada, Mwangi's supporters are calling on the government to intervene and prevent his deportation. They argue that returning him to Kenya would effectively constitute a death sentence, given the hostile environment for LGBTQ+ individuals there. The Migrant Workers Alliance has been actively campaigning on his behalf, urging the Canadian government to uphold its commitment to protecting vulnerable asylum seekers.