Uganda's constitutional court has upheld an anti-gay law that permits the death penalty for cases of 'aggravated homosexuality.' The law, signed by President Yoweri Museveni in May last year, has sparked controversy both within the country and internationally.
The legislation defines 'aggravated homosexuality' as instances of homosexual relations involving minors, vulnerable individuals, or when the perpetrator is HIV-positive. Those found guilty of 'attempted aggravated homosexuality' could face up to 14 years in prison, while 'attempted homosexuality' is punishable by a maximum of 10 years behind bars.
Homosexuality was already illegal in Uganda under a colonial-era law that criminalizes sexual activity deemed 'against the order of nature,' carrying a penalty of life imprisonment.
The passing of the new law drew criticism from various quarters, including the United Nations and U.S. President Joe Biden. The U.N. Human Rights Office expressed deep concern, labeling the law as a potential driver of systematic violations of LGBTQ+ rights and others. President Biden condemned the law as a violation of universal human rights, emphasizing its negative impact on Uganda's economic growth prospects.
Homosexuality remains criminalized in over 30 African countries, with some viewing it as a foreign import rather than a sexual orientation.
