US President Joe Biden strongly criticized Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni for signing a new law that targets the LGBTQ+ community, referring to it as a grave violation of human rights. Biden demanded the immediate repeal of the law and emphasized that nobody should have to live in fear or face discrimination and violence.
He expressed concern about the increasing reports of violence and discrimination against LGBTQ+ individuals in Uganda since the introduction of the law. Biden also denounced the law as part of a troubling trend of human rights abuses and corruption in Uganda, posing a threat to various stakeholders, including US government personnel, implementing partners, tourists, and the business community.
He instructed the US National Security Council to assess the implications of the law on all aspects of US engagement with Uganda, including the delivery of services under the US President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) and other forms of assistance. The Speaker of Parliament in Uganda expressed support for the law on Twitter, urging its enforcement.
While same-sex relationships are already banned in over 30 African nations, including Uganda, the new law further discriminates against LGBTQ+ individuals. Despite opposition from Western governments, businesses, and human rights activists, Museveni signed the Anti-Homosexuality Bill 2023 into law.
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