A Christian councillor who tweeted “Pride is not a virtue but a sin” has been suspended by the Tory Party and said he has been “cancelled” by six other organisations.
King Lawal, a Northamptonshire councillor, is being investigated by his party after expressing his religious beliefs on social media.
Last month, Lawal responded to pictures of pride parades organised by LGBT groups saying: “When did Pride become a thing to celebrate.
"Because of Pride Satan fell as an arch Angel. Pride is not a virtue but a Sin. Those who have Pride should Repent of their sins and return to Jesus Christ. He can save you. #PrideMonth #Pride23 #PrideParade'."
Last month, King Lawal responded to pictures of pride parades organised by LGBT groups
PAThe post featured an image with a verse from Isaiah 3 verse 9, which said: “Whatever God calls ‘Sin’ is nothing to be Proud of.”
Lawal said he was suspended by the local Conservative group shortly after posting the tweet and was told an investigation involving the Conservative headquarters (CCHQ) was pending.
The 31-year-old claims he was forced to resign from his job in a nursing and care business after receiving an ultimatum by a different local authority.
He was also dismissed as a trustee from an organisation which helps children get access to green spaces and suspended as an academy council member for Weavers Academy, a state secondary school in Wellingborough, Northants.
In addition, his local library said he could no longer hold a planned surgery at the venue.
“It is now almost impossible to say something biblically truthful on sexual ethics in UK society without being cancelled and having your life ruined," he told The Telegraph.
“What I said was biblically sound and a protected expression of the Christian faith.”
“As the only black councillor in the whole of Northamptonshire, I know what it is like to be in the minority, and I would never discriminate against anyone. I have diligently represented all my constituents; however, I must also be free to express my beliefs without fear.
“The blunt emails and cancellations I received were shocking and hurtful. There was no respect, no conversation and no reasonableness.
The 31-year-old claims he was forced to resign from his job in a nursing and care business after receiving an ultimatum by a different local authority
PA“There were times when my heart was pounding and everything was spinning out of control over one tweet.
“What has happened shows that I am not free and that this is not a free country anymore. If it was free, I would be able to speak.”
The councillor said he was considering legal action over alleged violations of his rights to freedom of speech and freedom of religion.
Cllr Jason Smithers, leader of North Northamptonshire Council, said: “North Northamptonshire Conservative Group are an inclusive group.
"We continue to be committed to reducing inequality within our communities and creating a fair and inclusive environment for everyone. We fully support our LGBTQ+ community, as we support all communities.”
