A US pastor who attempted to export anti-gay laws to Africa is competing in the Republican primary for Governor of Massachusetts.

Massachusetts preacher Scott Lively has links to anti-LGBT movements across the world, particularly in deprived countries. Human rights watchdogs allege his work is key to a wave of campaigns for anti-gay laws around the world.

Lively is reviled by LGBT activists for his work in pushing laws criminalising homosexuality, including Uganda’s now-defunct 2014 Anti-Homosexuality Act, while he also cheered on anti-gay legislation in Russia.

The pastor has now announced a bid for Governor of Massachusetts, as a primary challenger to incumbent Republican Governor Charlie Baker.

Lively has vowed to bring “a strong dose of true Republican values” to the race.

Speaking to Left-Right Radio with Chuck Morse, Lively insisted: “I’ve consulted on human rights around the world, and I can tell you there is no human right based in sodomy.” Read more via PinkNews