Ugandan Court Set to Deliver Ruling on Challenge to Controversial Anti-Gay Legislation

Uganda’s Constitutional Court to Deliver Verdict on Anti-Homosexuality Act

In a highly anticipated ruling, Uganda’s constitutional court is set to deliver a verdict on a petition seeking to annul the country’s controversial Anti-Homosexuality Act (AHA). The law, which was passed in May last year, has faced widespread condemnation from both the West and local human rights activists.

Under the AHA, same-sex acts and related activities carry severe punishments, including death for the offense of aggravated homosexuality and life imprisonment for gay sex. The passage of the legislation triggered sanctions from international bodies such as the World Bank and the U.S., with the World Bank halting new lending to the country and the U.S. issuing visa and travel cautions.

The ruling, expected to be announced at 10:00 am (0700 GMT), could have significant implications not only for Uganda but also for the broader African continent. The decision may underscore a growing anti-gay crackdown across Africa, with countries like Ghana also passing anti-gay laws earlier this year.

Petitioners challenging the AHA include a lawmaker and Frank Mugisha, Uganda’s most prominent LGBTQ activist. They argue that the law violates their constitutional rights and have called for its annulment. Mugisha has expressed hope that the judges will make the right decision but also voiced concerns about the influence of anti-gay propaganda on the court’s ruling.

Once the verdict is announced, any dissatisfied party will have the option to appeal to the Supreme Court. The outcome of this case will be closely watched by human rights advocates and LGBTQ communities both in Uganda and around the world.