Brunei delays introducing law allowing gays to be stoned to death

The introduction of Brunei’s new penal code that calls for death by stoning for same-sex sexual activity has been delayed.

It was due to come into force today, although the delay has been described by officials as temporary.

They say the new penal code will be introduced once Hassanal Bolkiah, the Sultan of Brunei, returns from his trip to Singapore.

Same-sex sexual activity, adultery, rape, extramarital sexual relations, and declaring oneself to be non-Muslim, are set to be included in the new code as offences warranting violent punishment.

The United Nations last week condemned Brunei over the policy.

Brunei gained independence from the UK in 1984.

Same-sex sexual activity is currently punishable with up to 10 years imprisonment.

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