Uganda’s President Yoweri Museveni has approved the enactment of an extremely strict anti-homosexuality act, which has garnered extensive criticism both in Uganda and globally for its alleged violation of universal human rights
In Uganda, same-sex relationships were already deemed unlawful, similar to nearby countries. However, the recently implemented legislation takes a more aggressive approach by specifically targeting individuals who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ).
Uganda’s controversial anti-homosexuality act: Defiance in the face of criticism
Despite facing opposition from Western governments, businesses, and human rights activists, the law has been approved.
The legislation imposes severe penalties, including capital punishment, for certain actions, such as engaging in homosexual activities while being HIV positive. Additionally, it mandates a lengthy prison sentence of 20 years for individuals involved in the “promotion” of homosexuality.
On Monday, the Speaker of Parliament, Anita Among, expressed her views in a Twitter post.
“I now encourage the duty bearers under the law to execute the mandate bestowed upon them in the Anti-Homosexuality Act.”
“The people of Uganda have spoken, and it is your duty to now enforce the law in a fair, steadfast, and firm manner.”
Engaging in homosexual activities will now be considered a criminal offense
Earlier this month, legislators approved a revised version of the bill, asserting their determination to counteract what they perceived as external interference and safeguard Uganda’s cultural values from perceived Western decadence.
The updated draft clarified that the act of identifying as gay would not be deemed illegal. However, engaging in homosexual activities would now be considered a criminal offense, carrying a punishment of life imprisonment.
The approval of the legislation has been widely condemned as a tragic violation of universal human rights.
The approval of the legislation has been widely condemned as a tragic violation of universal human rights
Worldwide condemnation and continued international LGBTQ+ support
According to Josep Borrell, the European Union’s foreign policy chief, this measure contravenes international human rights law and will have consequences for Uganda’s relationships with its global partners due this extreme anti-homosexuality act.
“This law is contrary to international human rights law and to Uganda’s obligations under the African Charter on Human and People’s Rights, including commitments on dignity and non-discrimination, and the prohibition of cruel, inhuman or degrading punishment,” Borrell said in a statement.
This law is contrary to international human rights law
President Joe Biden of the United States demanded the immediate reversal of the law, further warning of potential reductions in aid and investment to the East African nation.
The UK government have also expressed deep dismay, emphasizing its strong opposition to the death penalty under any circumstances.
“This legislation undermines the protections and freedoms of all Ugandans enshrined in the Ugandan Constitution.”
“This legislation undermines the protections and freedoms of all Ugandans enshrined in the Ugandan Constitution,”
“It will increase the risk of violence, discrimination and persecution, will set back the fight against HIV/AIDs, and will damage Uganda’s international reputation,” he remarked, describing the law as “deeply discriminatory”.
