Members of Parliament (MPs) in Uganda have raised concerns about the influence of local gay rights activists and have advised caution to the World Bank regarding their claims. The MPs have referred to these activists as self-interested individuals who might abandon their advocacy once their goals are achieved.
This stance was expressed during a press conference held at Parliament in response to the World Bank's decision to suspend funding for projects in Uganda due to the enactment of the Anti-Homosexuality Act 2023.
The World Bank suspended funding, citing human rights violations, and called for protective policies for minority groups, including the LGBTQ+ community. The new Ugandan legislation imposes severe penalties, including life imprisonment and even the death penalty for certain acts.
While the World Bank's action was prompted by the harsh new law, MPs have voiced concerns about the perceived inconsistency in the bank's approach to other countries that also criminalize homosexuality. Questions have arisen regarding potential alternative funding sources if the World Bank's involvement is seen as influencing political decisions.
Sarah Opendi, a district woman MP, urged the World Bank to focus on its poverty eradication mission, stating that Uganda will not accept homosexuality as a human right. Opendi emphasized that the new law is intended to protect children and criticized those who advocate for homosexuality. She warned the World Bank to be cautious of Ugandans attempting to mislead the organization for personal gain.
Asuman Basalirwa, another MP, accused the World Bank of misunderstanding the provisions of the Anti-Homosexuality Act. He clarified that reporting acts of homosexuality would only be mandatory if they were committed against vulnerable groups like children.
Basalirwa criticized the World Bank's lack of knowledge about the law and refuted claims that healthcare would be denied based on sexual orientation. He argued that such claims propagated misinformation.
The MPs collectively expressed concerns about the influence of Ugandan gay rights activists and urged the World Bank to reconsider its stance. They stressed the importance of understanding the context and provisions of the Anti-Homosexuality Act. The MPs reaffirmed Uganda's commitment to its values and laws, particularly those protecting children.
