Joe Biden, the president of the United States, has called on the government of Uganda to repeal its new law against the LGBTQ community in the country.
On May 29, 2023, the president of Uganda, Yoweri Museveni, signed the anti-homosexuality bill into law.
According to the new anti-gay law, anyone convicted of homosexuality will be sentenced to life imprisonment. Also, aggravated offenses such as sexual abuse against minors or disabled individuals attract the death penalty.
Joe Biden has condemned this new law by the president, tagging it as a tragic violation of universal human rights.
In a statement released by the White House and sighted by 1Family Radio, Joe Biden called for the immediate repeal of the law.
“The enactment of Uganda’s Anti-Homosexuality Act is a tragic violation of universal human rights — one that is not worthy of the Ugandan people and one that jeopardizes the prospects of critical economic growth for the entire country. I join with people around the world—including many in Uganda—in calling for its immediate repeal. No one should have to live in constant fear for their life or be subjected to violence and discrimination. It is wrong,’’ Biden noted.
“Since the Anti-Homosexuality Act was introduced, reports of violence and discrimination targeting Ugandans who are or are perceived to be LGBTQI+ are on the rise. Innocent Ugandans now fear going to hospitals, clinics, or other establishments to receive life-saving medical care lest they be targeted by hateful reprisals. Some have been evicted from their homes or fired from their jobs. And the prospect of graver threats—including lengthy prison sentences, violence, and abuse—threatens any number of Ugandans who want nothing more than to live their lives in safety and freedom.’’
“This shameful act is the latest development in an alarming trend of human rights abuses and corruption in Uganda. The dangers posed by this democratic backsliding are a threat to everyone residing in Uganda, including U.S. government personnel, the staff of our implementing partners, tourists, members of the business community, and others. As such, I have directed my National Security Council to evaluate the implications of this law on all aspects of U.S. engagement with Uganda, including our ability to safely deliver services under the U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) and other forms of assistance and investments. My administration will also incorporate the impacts of the law into our review of Uganda’s eligibility for the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA). And we are considering additional steps, including the application of sanctions and restrictions on entry into the United States against anyone involved in serious human rights abuses or corruption.’’
The United States shares a deep and committed partnership with the people of Uganda. For more than 60 years, we have worked together to help millions of Ugandans live healthier, more productive lives.
“Our programs have boosted economic growth and agricultural productivity, increased investments in Ugandan businesses, and strengthened our trade cooperation. In total, the U.S. government invests nearly $1 billion annually in Uganda’s people, businesses, institutions, and military to advance our common agenda. The scale of our commitments speaks to the value we place on this partnership and our faith in the people of Uganda to build for themselves a better future. It is my sincere hope that we can continue to build on this progress together and strengthen protections for the human rights of people everywhere,’’ the statement indicated.
Source: 1Familyradio
