Uganda defends controversial homosexual law amid World Bank funding freeze

Yoweri Museveni, Uganda’s President, responded to the World Bank’s decision not to fund the African nation in light of a contentious law against homosexuality.

The country has introduced an anti-LGBT law, with the death penalty being applicable in some cases.

It stipulates capital punishment for “serial offenders” against the law and transmission of a terminal illness like HIV/AIDS through gay sex.

It also decrees a 20-year sentence for promoting homosexuality.

Museveni asserted on platform X (previously known as Twitter), “Uganda will progress, with or without loans.”

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He expressed disappointment in the World Bank’s attempt to influence Ugandan culture, principles, and sovereignty using financial means, emphasizing the nation’s autonomy.

Museveni stated that Uganda didn’t need external pressure to address its societal issues and mentioned they would continue discussions with the World Bank to bridge differences.

Conversely, on the same platform, Ugandan opposition leader Bobi Wine questioned the Bank’s focus solely on gay rights, overlooking other significant human rights abuses in the country.

On a related note, the World Bank Group clarified that no new public funding will be provided to Uganda unless projects align with their environmental and social norms.

The institution highlighted its commitment to protecting sexual and gender minorities from discrimination in funded projects.

In late May, Museveni approved a controversial law against homosexuality that prescribes severe punishments.

While he had initially hesitated, calling for softer terms, the final legislation retains harsh clauses.

Specifically, promoting homosexuality knowingly can lead to a 20-year prison sentence.

This law has been widely criticized internationally by entities including the United Nations, the European Union, the USA, and human rights organizations.

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