Section 14 of the Anti Homosexuality Act 2023 states that, “a person who is otherwise prevented by privilege from making a report under sub section (I) shall be immune from any action arising from the disclosure of the information without consent or waiver of privilege first being obtained or had,” This statement speaks directly to doctor-patient privilege making the walls to health access higher. The Ministry of Health could argue that they released a statement instructing medical practitioners to not discriminate but since when do statements hold weight over laws? The only solution to this inequality is to repeal the draconian law altogether.
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Today, the legal battle challenging the constitutionality of Uganda Anti-Homosexuality Act 2023 took a significant step forward before His Lordship Justice Kiryabwire at the constitutional court in Kampala. CFE legal representatives alongside others appeared for case conferencing on all 4 petitions (i.e. 14,15,16 and 85 to agree on facts and issues.
Kuchu Times Media Group is proud to announce the 7th edition of Bombastic magazine. This edition focuses on the unprecedented challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. This personal edition seeks to amplify the voices and experiences of the LGBT community in Uganda, shedding light on the unique challenges faced during these trying times. The COVID-19 […]
It is a shame that religion, a source of solace and guidance for many, has been manipulated to peddle homophobia. It is important for faith leaders to revisit the teachings of Christ, recognizing that the essence of Christianity lies in love, acceptance, and compassion. Let your pulpits be spaces where the message of inclusivity resounds, challenging the narrative that has perpetuated homophobia. Leaders should lead by example, fostering an environment where everyone, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity, feels welcomed and embraced within the loving arms of the faith community.
It is essential for the international community, human rights organizations, and concerned citizens to continue to pressure the Ugandan government to repeal this discriminatory law and work towards a more inclusive and equitable society where the rights of all individuals are respected and protected. Until then, the struggle for LGBTIQ+ rights in Uganda remains a crucial battle for human rights and dignity.
In a society where the LGBTQ+ community in Uganda faces numerous challenges, the importance of teaching queer individuals to write and share their own stories cannot be overstated. These stories have the potential to challenge stereotypes, foster empathy, and empower individuals to take control of their narratives. Through storytelling, the marginalized can find their voices, and the misunderstood can find understanding. As we recognize the power of personal narratives, we take a step towards a more inclusive, accepting, and compassionate Uganda.
It’s basically the same grift and it bears a striking resemblance to the one being attempted by Langa, who seeks to amplify his influence by overstating his reach. For instance, the group “One Million Moms” purports to represent a million individuals, despite estimates suggesting that their actual membership is nowhere near that figure. Similarly, Langa’s “concerned parents’ ‘ claim to speak on behalf of all parents in Uganda, despite the fact that even the most “concerned” parents are unfamiliar with Langa or what he does. These groups are also financially supported by the typical right-wing and religious backers, such as Family Watch International for Langa and the fundamentalist Christian American Family Association for “One Million Moms.” Furthermore, they are often not so eager to disclose the identities of these funders.
One of the primary reasons they offered for their decision is that the law goes against their values. Just as you would not bring pork to a Muslim picnic, you should not anger the people who are lending you money by going against their fundamental values and beliefs. This does not negate your personal convictions; you do not become a Muslim because you honored their ideals and did not bring meat to their picnic. While laws and regulations are a little more complicated than that, violating an institution’s principles and values by criminalizing, imprisoning, and murdering the most marginalized members of the community it seeks to serve is an obvious justification for action.
‘Rather than attempt any convoluted and superficial mitigation measures, the law should be repealed. As in all countries, government press statements cannot nullify legislation. The only way forward is for Uganda’s courts to stand up for the principle of non-discrimination – already enshrined in our constitution – and rule that the law is unconstitutional as soon as possible,” said Frank Mugisha of Sexual Minorities Uganda (SMUG) and Co-Convener of CFE.
It is a stark reminder that laws targeting LGBTQ+ individuals not only perpetuate discrimination but also hinder economic growth, social inclusivity, and the overall well-being of a nation’s population. By taking a firm stance against such laws, the international community sends a powerful message that equality and human rights are non-negotiable values.