Parliament passed the Anti-Homosexuality Bill, 2023 on Tuesday with strict penalties for people engaged in same-sex activities in Uganda.
At least 389 MPs attended in person while about 48 MPs followed proceedings via Zoom. The number overwhelmingly exceeded the quorum of 176 MPs required to vote on the Bill.
Only one MP, Fox Odoi was against passing the Bill arguing that it violates human rights.
“It contains unconstitutional provisions, reverses the gains registered in the fight against gender-based violence, and criminalizes individuals instead of conduct that contravenes legal provisions,” he said.
“This House will not shy to restrict any right to the extent of the House that recognizes, protects, and safeguards the sovereignty, morals, and culture of this country,” speaker Anita Among said after parliament unanimously adopted the Bill.
The newly passed bill that now awaits President Museveni’s consent bans promoting and abetting homosexuality as well as conspiracy to engage in homosexuality.
Penalties under the new legislation include a 10-year jail term for anyone who engages in same-sex relationships or identifies as LGBTQ.
Also, violations under the law draw severe penalties, including death for so-called aggravated homosexuality and life in prison for gay sex.
Aggravated homosexuality involves gay sex with people under 18 or when the perpetrator is HIV positive, among other categories, according to the law.