Ugandan LGBTQIA+ activists filed a lawsuit Monday within the nation’s Constitutional Court to look at the constitutionality of the Anti-Homosecuality Act, signed by the nation’s president earlier this yr, that restricts the rights of LGBTIA+ people and imposes harsh penalties, together with execution, for sure same-sex acts.
A panel of 5 judges, led by Choose Richard Buteera, has commenced hearings on the matter, soliciting written submissions from each events. Nicholas Opiyo, the lawyer representing the candidates, expressed hope the court docket would rule pretty. He additionally stated, “The court docket has a chance to determine whether or not the structure of Uganda affords all Ugandans, together with LGBTQI+ people, equal safety beneath the legislation.”
The legislation has been met with condemnation globally, with LGBTQIA+ organizations criticizing the EU for its continued monetary help of Uganda after the ratification of the Act and the UK and US closely criticizing the it.
Uganda’s legislature has defended the legislation, with The Speaker of the Ugandan Parliament Anita Annet Amongst stating, “As Parliament of Uganda, we have now heeded the issues [of] our folks and legislated to guard the sanctity of household.”
According to the Worldwide Lesbian, Homosexual, Bisexual, Trans and Intersex Affiliation (ILGA), throughout the African continent, solely 22 of 54 nations have legalized homosexuality. Mauritania and Somalia permit the dying penalty for same-sex sexual acts.
