Lagos, Nigeria (CNN) Denmark's development minister Ulla Tornaes announced Thursday that the country has withheld $9.8 million in aid money to Tanzania over "unacceptable homophobic" comments made by one of the country's government officials.

Tornaes said she was "very concerned" about the negative developments in Tanzania, and would no longer be giving the country the aid money.

"I am very concerned about the negative developments in Tanzania. Most recently unacceptable homophobic statements by a Commissioner. I have therefore decided to withhold 65 million for the country. Respect for human rights absolutely essential for DK," the Danish minister tweeted

CNN's efforts to reach Tanzania's government spokesman for comment so far have been unsuccessful.

The minister did not mention the name of the government official, but Tanzania is facing immense international criticism, following last month's announcement of a crackdown on lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender citizens.