In Uganda, LGBT activists are fighting against the possible reintroduction of a bill that could make homosexuality punishable by death. The law, known as the “Kill the Gays” law, was passed in 2014 but was annulled by the constitutional court on a technicality. In late September, Democracy Now! interviewed Ugandan Prime Minister Ruhakana Rugunda at the United Nations General Assembly here in New York City.
Amy Goodman: “Can I ask you a tough question about LGBT rights in Uganda? Although a court has struck down the anti-LGBT legislation, still there’s intense discrimination against the gay and lesbian and trans community. As prime minister, what can you do?”
Prime Minister Ruhakana Rugunda: “I’m not aware of the discrimination that you’re talking about. And the courts of law in Uganda have taken a position, and we stand by the decision taken by court in Uganda over the matter.”
Amy Goodman: “Do you think LGBTQ people should be respected and protected like any other individual in Uganda?”
Prime Minister Ruhakana Rugunda: “No single human being should be discriminated.”