BY – Faith Isaac
In response to World Bank’s verdicts to Ugandan policy against same-sex conduct otherwise known as LGBTQ, the Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni, Thursday, condemned the decision of the financial institution, on its refusal to grant Ugandans loans.
This is based on Uganda’s stance on the LGBTQ movement.
President Yoweri Museveni in May, signed into law draconian new measures against homosexuality, which is seen to be among the world’s harshest.
It also prompting condemnation from human rights and LGBQT groups.
The law states that gay would not be criminalised but “engaging in acts of homosexuality” would be an offence punishable with life imprisonment. Also “aggravated homosexuality” is a capital offence in Uganda, meaning that repeat offenders could be sentenced to death.
World Bank on Tuesday said the law, which imposes the death penalty for certain same-sex acts, contradicted its values and that it would pause new funding until it could test measures to prevent discrimination in projects it finances.
“Uganda’s Anti-Homosexuality Act fundamentally contradicts the World Bank Group’s values.
“We believe our vision to eradicate poverty on a livable planet can only succeed if it includes everyone irrespective of race, gender, or sexuality.
This law undermines those efforts. Inclusion and non-discrimination sit at the heart of our work around the world.
No new public financing to Uganda will be presented to our board of executive directors until the efficacy of the additional measures has been tested.
“We remain committed to helping all Ugandans, without exception, escape poverty, access vital services, and improve their lives,” it added.
Putting up a bold face to the setback, Museveni stated that Ugandans will not bow to pressure over the issue and abandon their culture and principles.
His words; “It is, therefore, unfortunate that the World Bank and other actors dare to want to coerce us into abandoning our faith, culture, principles and sovereignty, using money
“They really underestimate all Africans,” he said.
He added he hoped the World Bank would reconsider its decision.
However, the World Bank noted that they will always be in support of Ugandans everywhere and wish them the best.
In June, the United States imposed visa restrictions on some Ugandan officials in response to the law. President Joe Biden also ordered a review of U.S. aid to Uganda.
