Uganda’s Constitutional Court is preparing to hear three petitions that challenge the anti-homosexuality law enacted in May. This law carries severe penalties, including the death penalty for cases of “aggravated homosexuality,” such as sexual acts involving children or vulnerable individuals. It also applies to forced same-sex relations, HIV transmission, or repeated offenses.
The petitioners, consisting of individuals and human rights organizations, argue that the law was passed without adequate public involvement and that it violates constitutional rights and freedoms. Critics have described it as harsh, inhumane, and a serious violation of universal human rights.
The petitioners contend that the legal and parliamentary affairs committee did not conduct thorough scrutiny and failed to facilitate enough public input. They claim that the law infringes on constitutional rights, including the right to equality, non-discrimination, dignity, privacy, health, freedom of expression, and association.
In August, a 20-year-old man faced prosecution for aggravated homosexuality, potentially facing the death penalty.
Reports indicate that this year has seen over 300 human rights abuses against LGBTQ+ individuals in Uganda, including torture, beatings, arrests, and forced disclosures of their sexual orientation and gender identity.
According to a BBC report, the case has been postponed to the following Thursday, citing the petition’s lawyers.
