Uganda’s President Yoweri Museveni has signed into law a new and controversial anti-gay legislation that has sparked outrage among human rights activists and the international community.
While the law does not criminalize individuals based on their sexual orientation or identity, it imposes severe penalties, including the death penalty, for “aggravated homosexuality.”
The term “aggravated homosexuality” encompasses cases involving sexual relations with minors, individuals infected with HIV, and other vulnerable groups. Convicted individuals found guilty of “attempted aggravated homosexuality” could face up to 14 years in prison.
The legislation has drawn support from many in Uganda, with Parliamentary Speaker Anita Among praising the president for heeding the cries of the people.
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President Museveni had returned the bill to the national assembly in April, seeking changes to differentiate between identifying as LGBTQ and engaging in homosexual acts. However, lawmakers passed an amended version of the bill in May, prompting concerns over the future of Uganda’s HIV response and public health.
The U.S. and international organizations, including Amnesty International, have criticized the legislation as draconian and warned of potential economic consequences.
The anti-gay sentiment in Uganda has been further fueled by recent news reports alleging incidents of sodomy in boarding schools, including one prestigious institution.
Additionally, the decision by the Church of England to ban church weddings for same-sex couples while allowing blessings for same-sex marriages and civil partnerships has sparked outrage across Africa.
The signing of this law represents a significant setback for LGBTQ rights in Uganda and poses a threat to the progress made in the country’s HIV response.
The international community continues to condemn the legislation and calls for the protection of human rights for all individuals, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity.
