Uganda’s President Yoweri Museveni has officially signed one of the world’s toughest anti-LGBTQ+ laws, drawing criticism and threats of sanctions from countries around the world.
Among it’s rulings, the Anti-Homosexuality Act includes the death penalty for “aggravated homosexuality” and a 20-year sentence for “promoting” homosexuality.
Originally passed on 21 March, the bill was then returned to Parliament by Museveni who demanded that it be made even harsher.
On 29 May, Museveni then signed the final version of the bill into law. Homosexuality and same-sex relations were already illegal in Uganda, but the new Anti-Homosexuality Act sets a precedent for anti-LGBTQ+ legislation in the country. READ MORE: LGBTQ+ Kenyans and Ugandans hide from wave of homophobic abuse US President Joe Biden has called for the “immediate repeal” of the legislation, describing the move as “a tragic violation” of human rights. “We are considering additional steps, including the application of sanctions and restriction of entry into the United States against anyone involved in serious human rights abuses or corruption,” Biden said.