In March, Uganda’s parliament approved an anti-gay bill which offers one of the world’s harshest penalties for same-sex relationships and anyone who simply identifies as LGBTQ.
Although, same-sex relationships was already illegal in Uganda as well as more than 30 African countries, the new law passed further targets anyone for merely identifying as lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBTQ)
The Anti-Homosexuality Act 2023, calls for the death penalty for “aggravated homosexuality”, which involves same-sex relationships with people who are HIV-positive, minors and anyone who falls under the vulnerability category. Anyone who engages in gay sex could face life imprisonment if convicted and anyone who is caught trying to engage in same-sex relations could face up to 10 years in prison.
Uganda’s president, Yoweri Museveni has shown his ideologies lie with the strict contents within this law. He has referred to queer people as “unnatural” and “deviants.” His views clearly indicate that he would see to the passing of this law.
However, the Uganda Parliament has proposed an amended version to this controversial bill. Under this new legislation, homosexual behaviour are still illegal but identifying as homosexual without engaging in homosexual acts will not face persecutions. Even with this amendment, the bill is still highly restrictive showing no progress.
Only one member in Parliament, Fox Odoi-Oywelowo spoke against the bill calling it a breach in human rights.
The United Nations has expressed concerns and condemned this bill. Most Western nations have taken the stance that if this law is enacted, economic sanctions and other negative repercussions will be imposed on Uganda.
