President Yoweri Museveni of Uganda has signed one of the world's most draconian anti-gay legislation into law.
President Museveni has stood firm in his decision despite threats of aid cuts and penalties from Western countries, mainly the US.
President Museveni said Uganda's unflinching position would not be swayed by intimidation.
"The signing is finished, nobody will move us, and not one act of intimidation or actions will weaken Uganda's resolve," the Head of State declared.
In reaction to the potential ramifications, President Museveni highlighted Uganda's readiness to face any challenges.
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"If they reduce aid, we will sit down, discipline our spending, and restructure our budgets." We will trade with others if they interfere with our trade. That's why I told you to prepare for a battle; you can't fight it if you're a pleasure seeker; the conflict isn't for the peaceful life."
President Museveni further stated that before enacting the law, he had conducted extensive consultations to discover whether homosexuality was determined by heredity.
According to the President, scientists informed him that homosexuality is not a genetic disorder but a "psychological disorientation."
The newly approved law stipulates harsh punishments for same-sex behaviours, such as a life sentence for same-sex intercourse and a 20-year penalty for inciting homosexuality.
Human rights activists worldwide have slammed the legislation, claiming that it violates fundamental human rights and promotes discrimination against the LGBTQ+ community.
The international community, mainly Western countries, has expressed concern and criticised the bill, threatening to stop aid and impose penalties.
The White House, speaking on behalf of President Joe Biden's administration, strongly condemned the implementation of the Ugandan Anti-Homosexuality Act on May 29, 2023, calling it a "tragic violation of universal human rights" that does not reflect Ugandan values.
President Biden asked people worldwide, especially Ugandans, to work together to abolish the Anti-Homosexuality Act.
He highlighted that no one should be forced to live in fear because of their safety or face violence and discrimination because of their sexual orientation since such actions are fundamentally wrong.
