Keith Goddard in OutRage!

“It is therefore with great sadness that I learn of the continuing harassment of the human rights group, Gays & Lesbians of Zimbabwe (GALZ), in particular the arrest of GALZ leader, Keith Goddard, on charges of forced sodomy - despite the police possession of evidence that the alleged "victim" had been attempting to blackmail and extort money from Goddard. Knowing Keith Goddard personally, it is inconceivable that he would ever use sexual force or pressure. He is a most gentle, considerate man, to whom any form of coercive sex would be abhorrent. Personally, and on behalf of the lesbian and gay human rights group OutRage!, I urge you to intervene to ensure that these absurd, unjust and uncorroborated charges against Keith Goddard are dropped.”

Peter Tatchell / OutRage! In a letter to Zimbabwean President Robert Mugabe

The Zimbabwe Human Rights NGO Forum is sad to announce the tragic death of our colleague, Keith Goddard, a champion of human and LGBT rights in Zimbabwe and on the world stage. Sadly, after a short illness, Keith died last night, Friday 9th October at St Anne's Hospital in Harare. Keith sat on our Board of Directors and was the Director of our member organisation, Gays and Lesbians of Zimbabwe (GALZ).

http://pambazuka.org/en/category/obituary/59590

Keith joined GALZ as a member in 1992 and was appointed as the Programmes Manager in 1996. In 2006 he was appointed as the Director, a position that he held till the time of his death. During his life and time with GALZ, Keith was instrumental in highlighting the challenges experienced by LGBT people. Although of small stature he had a voice that commanded authority and silenced any room he was in. Keith dedicated his life to the advancement of LGBT rights, human rights and his passion for music. The struggle for LGBT rights is a difficult struggle and in many instances in the history of GALZ Keith stood gallantly in the frontline. He dared where most men would not go. At the time of his death, Keith was serving as a board member for the Zimbabwe Human Rights Forum, The Centre and the Zimbabwe College of Music.

May your soul Rest In Peace dear friend and comrade.