US Criticizes Uganda’s Anti-Homosexuality Law as Insufficient for Human Rights Protection Post Anti-Gay Verdict

Summary:

• The US criticizes Uganda’s Anti-Homosexuality Law, calling it insufficient for safeguarding human rights. Despite some sections being struck down, concerns remain over threats to LGBTQI+ rights. Uganda faces Western backlash, including aid cuts, since enacting the law, which imposes harsh penalties for homosexuality-related offenses.

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Following the Uganda Constitutional Court’s decision to uphold the Anti-Homosexuality Law while striking down four sections, the US Department of State has responded, labeling it “a small and insufficient step towards safeguarding human rights.”

Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken expressed ongoing deep concern over human rights abuses in Uganda, particularly towards the LGBTQI+ community. He emphasized that while the removal of some provisions from the Anti-Homosexuality Act is noted, the remaining sections still pose significant threats to human rights, public health, civic space, and Uganda’s international standing.

The statement aligns with concerns outlined in Section 3 (2)C, 9, 11 (2)d, and 14 of the Anti-Homosexuality Act, 2023, which were deemed to violate fundamental rights recognized universally.

However, some Ugandans who challenged the law urged the Western world to refrain from involvement, citing concerns that foreign interventions could undermine local agency and the legitimacy of judicial decisions.

In response to the court’s decision, human rights lawyer Nicholas Opiyo expressed disagreement with the judges’ findings, emphasizing the importance of reasoned judgment to inform further actions.

Since President Museveni signed the law last year, there has been significant backlash from Western countries, including aid cuts and loan suspensions from entities like the US and IMF.

The Anti-Homosexuality Act, 2023, imposes severe penalties for various offenses related to homosexuality, including death for aggravated homosexuality and imprisonment up to 20 years for other offenses.