Kampala, Uganda – Gay rights activists in Uganda are calling for increased international pressure on the government to repeal a law that imposes the death penalty for “aggravated homosexuality.” The Constitutional Court of Uganda recently refused to nullify the law, which also includes lengthy prison sentences for other same-sex offenses. Homosexuality is already illegal in Uganda, as well as in many other African countries.
Members of the LGBT community and activists are urging the international community to exert more pressure on the Ugandan government in order to bring about the repeal of the anti-gay law. Activist Frank Mugisha described the court’s ruling as “wrong and deplorable.” He also called for restrictions on donor funding to Uganda, stating that donors should not support human rights violations and hatred against the LGBTQ+ community.
The law imposing the death penalty for “aggravated homosexuality” was signed by President Yoweri Museveni in May of last year. While it has gained support within Uganda, it has been strongly condemned by rights groups and others globally.
In response to the court’s decision, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken dismissed the limited concession that members of the LGBT community should not face discrimination in accessing medicine as insufficient in safeguarding human rights. White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan expressed deep disappointment with the ruling, highlighting its implications for human rights and economic prosperity in Uganda.
The Biden administration has already taken action against the Ugandan government, including imposing sanctions and visa restrictions on officials, as well as reducing support. The United States intends to continue holding individuals and entities accountable for human rights abuses in Uganda.
Nicholas Opiyo, a Ugandan human rights advocate and petitioner in the case, expressed disappointment with the court’s findings, disagreeing with its reliance on public sentiment and vague cultural values arguments. Opiyo had expected the court to defend human rights based on the law.
Despite the court’s decision, activists and advocates remain committed to their cause, calling for sustained pressure and action to drive change in Uganda. The anti-gay law continues to pose threats to the country’s citizens, particularly LGBTQ+ individuals, and has negative implications for public health, civic space, and Uganda’s international reputation.
The fight for LGBTQ+ rights in Uganda is ongoing, and activists are appealing to the international community to join them in their efforts to repeal the controversial law. The hope is that through increased pressure, advocacy, and support, progress can be made towards securing equal rights and protections for all individuals in Uganda, regardless of their sexual orientation.