US Punishes Ugandan Officials Over Anti-LGBTQ Law

The United States has imposed visa restrictions on Ugandan government officials following the passage of an anti-LGBTQ law by the country’s parliament, which has been condemned by several countries and the United Nations.

The law, which went into effect in May, carries the death penalty for “aggravated homosexuality,” which includes transmitting HIV through gay intercourse.

The law also mandates a life penalty for same-sex intercourse and a 20-year sentence for promoting homosexuality.

Firms, including the media and non-governmental groups, that knowingly promote LGBTQ conduct will face serious penalties, according to the bill.

The rule prompted quick condemnation from the West and jeopardized some of the billions of dollars in international help that the government receives each year.

Following the passage of the law, US President Joe Biden warned of funding cuts and other consequences, while Secretary of State Antony Blinken stated last month that the government would explore imposing visa restrictions on Ugandan officials.

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On Friday, June 16, the State Department issued a statement stating that visa restrictions had been imposed, but it did not name any officials or even the number of officials who would be affected.

According to the statement, the US will hold accountable those responsible for violating human rights in Uganda, “including those of LGBTQI+ persons.”

The State Department recently amended its Uganda travel advice for US residents to emphasize the danger that LGBTQI+ people could be prosecuted and sentenced to life in prison or the death penalty under the law, it added.

“The United States strongly supports the Ugandan people and remains committed to advancing respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms in Uganda and globally,” the State Department stated.

Homosexuality was already banned in the East African country, and gays faced ostracism and regular persecution from security agents, according to the US State Department.