Diplomatic sources have told Bbeg Media that the United States is preparing a raft of sanctions which could include banning judges that were directly involved in the Constitutional Court ruling from travelling to the US.
Our diplomatic sources in Kampala said the US was still reviewing the judgement and will prepare a number of responses.
Court yesterday upheld the Anti-Homosexuality Act saying it complies with the Constitution. The ruling was a big blow to rights activists who had wanted court to quash the law arguing that it infringes individual’s fundamental human rights.
The United States Agency for International Development (USAID), was part of the petitioners against the law.
“They could be stopped from travelling to the US for work or business,” our diplomatic sources said.
The Constitutional court panel that made the ruling was led by the Deputy Chief Justice, Richard Buteera. Other judges on the panel were: Geofrey Kiryabwire, Monica Mugenyi, Kibeedi Muzamiru and Christopher Gashirabake.
The US has already banned some legislators at the forefront of the passing of the law from travelling to the US.
The sources also did not rule out more aid cuts to Uganda.
Reacting to the ruling yesterday, Anthony Blinken, the US Secretary of State wrote: “Today’s verdict on Uganda’s Anti-Homosexuality Act undermines human rights and public health for all and poses grave threats to LGBTQI+ Ugandans and allies. Uganda’s international reputation and ability to increase foreign investment depend on equality under the law.”
