Kampala, Uganda – (African Boulevard News) – President Yoweri Museveni has reaffirmed his support for the controversial anti-LGBTQ law in Uganda during his State of the Nation address. The law, which was passed in 2014, imposes life imprisonment for anyone found guilty of same-sex relations.
In his speech, Museveni argued that homosexuality is not a human right and went further to say that it is a deviation that should not be promoted in the country. He further urged Ugandans to reject homosexuality, saying that it contradicts the country’s religious and cultural values.
“Uganda is committed to protecting the moral fabric of our society by rejecting homosexuality, which is not only immoral but also against our culture, religion, and values,” Museveni said.
The anti-gay law has been criticized by human rights activists both locally and internationally, who argue that it promotes discrimination and violates the rights of the LGBTQ community in Uganda.
In response to Museveni’s address, human rights activist, Frank Mugisha, who is also the executive director of Sexual Minorities Uganda, said, “The continued endorsement of this law by our president only legitimizes the harassment and persecution of queer Ugandans.”
Mugisha further called on the international community to take a stand against the law and support the LGBTQ community in Uganda.
However, according to Museveni, homosexuality is not a human right and should not be used to justify violating the rights of others.
“In Uganda, sex is confidential, even heterosexual sex. Therefore, if a homosexual keeps his being to himself or confidentially seeks assistance from doctors or priests, it will not offend this society or the law,” Museveni explained.
Despite Museveni’s claims that homosexuality is not a human right, same-sex relations are protected under international human rights law, including the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
In conclusion, Museveni’s reaffirmation of his support for the anti-LGBTQ law has sparked outrage among human rights activists who argue that it promotes discrimination and violates the rights of the LGBTQ community in Uganda. It remains to be seen what actions the international community will take in response to Museveni’s remarks.
