Joe Biden Says US Considering Sanctions For Uganda Over Anti-Gay Bill
- Published By Jane Njeri For The Statesman Digital
- 1 year ago
In a statement dated May 29, President Biden condemned the enactment terming it as a "democratic backsliding", adding that it risks denying Ugandans services they benefit from the U.S.
"This shameful Act is the latest development in an alarming trend of human rights abuses and corruption in Uganda," reads part of the statement.
As a consequence, therefore, President Biden stated that he has directed the respective authorities to assess all the implications of the law.
He added that the US is also considering restricting travel against anyone seeking to jet into the Western economic hub.
"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," noted Biden.
He added: "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)."
"And we are considering additional steps, including the application of sanctions and restriction of entry into the United States against anyone involved in serious human rights abuses or corruption."
Biden further expressed optimism that the enactment will be reviewed to avoid jeopardizing the 60-year partnership they have had with Uganda.
"In total, the U.S. Government invests nearly $1 billion annually in Uganda’s people, business, institutions, and military to advance our common agenda. The scale of our commitments speaks to the value we place on this partnership—and our faith in the people of Uganda to build for themselves a better future," he said.
"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."
The bill, which was assented into law on Monday by President Yoweri Museveni, enjoys broad public support in Uganda but has faced harsh criticism from the U.S., European Union and international human rights groups.
Share on
SHARE YOUR COMMENT
MORE STORIES FOR YOU
Trending Stories
DJ Mo’s former illicit lo...
- Published By Jane
- January 15, 2024
Mapenzi! Zari and Tanasha...
- Published By Jane
- October 24, 2023
Zuchu Speaks on Diamond P...
- Published By Jane
- October 12, 2023
Hio Ni Upumbavu Wasituche...
- Published By Jane
- November 8, 2023
RECOMMENDED FOR YOU
How to deal with a silent...
- Published By Jedida
- October 16, 2024
How to set yourself up fo...
- Published By Jedida
- October 16, 2024
Postpartum Hemorrhage: Si...
- Published By Jedida
- October 16, 2024
Study reveals long term e...
- Published By Jedida
- October 16, 2024
Latest Stories
MTN Uganda records Shs 45...
- Published By Jane
- November 14, 2024
Why is Elon Musk becoming...
- Published By Jane
- November 14, 2024
Embu: Man who slashed wif...
- Published By Jane
- November 14, 2024
Judy Nyawira, Abel Mutua...
- Published By Jedida
- November 14, 2024