Parliament passes tough Anti-Homosexuality Bill
Mar 21, 2023
The bill will next go to President Yoweri Museveni, who can choose to veto or sign it into law.
Speaker of Parliament Anitah Among is cheered on by fellow legislators as she leaves the House on March 21, 2023. (Credit: Miriam Namutebi)
AFP .
@New Vision
On Tuesday, Parliament passed sweeping anti-gay legislation (Anti-Homosexuality Bill, 2023), which proposes tough new penalties for same-sex relationships following a highly charged and chaotic session.
"The ayes have it," Speaker of Parliament Annet Anita Among said after a final vote, adding that the "bill passed in record time".
It was a full House on Tuesday
Legislators amended significant portions of the original proposed law with all but one speaking against the bill.
Homosexuality is already illegal in conservative Uganda and it was not immediately clear what new penalties had been agreed upon.
Pastor Martin Ssempa is a strong advocate against homosexuality. He attended Tuesday's session.
"This House will not shy to restrict any right to the extent the House recognises, protects and safeguards the sovereignty of this country and the morals of this country," said Among.
The bill will next go to President Yoweri Museveni, who can choose to veto or sign it into law.
