In a landmark ruling, Uganda’s Constitutional Court has upheld an anti-gay law that allows for the death penalty in cases of “aggravated homosexuality”. The law, signed by President Yoweri Museveni last year, has been widely condemned by rights activists and international observers. Despite the outcry, the court ruled that the law was legally passed by parliament and does not violate the constitution. “We decline to nullify the Anti Homosexuality Act 2023 in its entirety; neither would we grant a permanent injunction against enforcement,” said Deputy Chief Justice Richard Buteera. However, the court did rule that members of the gay community should not be discriminated against when seeking medical treatment. “They should be medically and culturally accepted,” Buteera added. The petitioners, led by lawyer Nicholas Opiyo, had given 14 grounds for its dismissal. One of the petitioners, Andrew Mwenda, said they would appeal to the Supreme Court. Despite the setback, Mwenda remains hopeful. “What we have witnessed in court is what I would call a temporary reversal in an overall strategic battle or a strategic war against cultural bigotry and prejudice,” he said. While the ruling is a blow to human rights advocates, it also serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggle for equality and acceptance. The fight is far from over, and the hope for a more inclusive future remains alive.
Source: AP News
