President Joe Biden has strongly condemned Uganda’s newly enacted anti-gay law and issued a warning that the United States may impose sanctions and other penalties in response to what he termed as a violation of human rights.
In a statement, Biden expressed his disappointment, calling for an immediate repeal of the Anti-Homosexuality Act, which was signed into law by President Yoweri Museveni on Monday. The law includes provisions for the death penalty in cases of aggravated homosexuality.
Biden emphasized that the law is a tragic violation of universal human rights and does not reflect the values of the Ugandan people. Furthermore, he pointed out that it puts the country’s economic growth prospects at risk.
The President further stated that he has directed the National Security Council to assess the impact of this law on all aspects of U.S. engagement with Uganda.
This evaluation includes the ability to provide safe and effective services under the U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) and other forms of assistance and investments.
Currently, PEPFAR invests around US$400 million annually in Uganda’s HIV/AIDS response.
Biden stressed that additional measures are being considered, which may include sanctions and restrictions on entry into the United States for individuals involved in serious human rights abuses or corruption.
In connection to the law, Bugiri Municipality MP Asuman Basalirwa, the key proponent of the anti-gay bill, confirmed that Speaker Anita Among had her U.S. visa revoked.
The situation remains highly sensitive, and the international community is closely monitoring Uganda’s response to this issue.