Kampala, Uganda – July 11th, 2024 – Ugandan human rights activists have filed an appeal with the Supreme Court, challenging a lower court ruling that upheld the country’s controversial Anti-Homosexuality Act (AHA). The law, which carries the death penalty for certain same-sex acts, has been condemned by rights groups and Western nations.
The appeal comes after a Ugandan constitutional court decision in April rejected a petition to overturn the AHA entirely. While the lower court did strike down sections related to health, privacy, and religious freedom, the core of the law remains in place.
“We will await the Supreme Court’s directions and are optimistic for an expedited hearing,” stated Nicholas Opiyo, a lawyer representing the petitioners.
The petitioners, including Ugandan lawmaker and prominent LGBTQ rights activist Frank Mugisha, argue that the lower court failed to recognize the law’s violation of fundamental rights. Court documents obtained by Reuters reveal their argument centers on the right to human dignity and freedom from cruel and degrading treatment.
The AHA imposes harsh penalties on same-sex acts, ranging from life imprisonment for intercourse to the death penalty for “aggravated homosexuality.” Additionally, the law bans the promotion of homosexuality, with offenders facing a possible 20-year prison sentence.
The international community has strongly condemned the law. The United States has imposed travel and trade sanctions against certain Ugandan officials, while the World Bank has halted new loans to the country.
The Ugandan Supreme Court’s decision on the appeal will be closely watched by human rights advocates around the world.
