The United States of America is evaluating withdrawing some key services and aids it offers Uganda following the criminalisation of homosexuality, US President Joe Biden has said.
Biden in a statement condemned the move by President Yoweri Museveni to sign into law law saying such laws violate the basic tenets of Human rights.
"I join with people around the world—including many in Uganda—in calling for its immediate repeal," President Biden said.
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Biden said he had tasked his National Security Council to crack the whip on Uganda following the developments.
"I have directed my National Security Council to evaluate the implications of this law on all aspects of U.S. engagement with Uganda, including our ability to safely deliver services under the U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) and other forms of assistance and investments," he said.
"My Administration will also incorporate the impacts of the law into our review of Uganda’s eligibility for the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA)."
Biden further said his administration was contemplating imposing sanctions and restrictions on entry into the US to anyone involved in criminalising homosexuality and those against the LGBTQ+ community.
"No one should have to live in constant fear for their life or being subjected to violence and discrimination. It is wrong," the US President added.
Biden said the US government invests nearly $1 billion (Sh138,450,000,000) (Sh3,738,815,000,000 UGX) annually in Uganda’s people, businesses, institutions, and military to advance our common agenda.
"It is my sincere hope that we can continue to build on this progress, together, and strengthen protections for the human rights of people everywhere," Biden said.
