Post date: Feb 25, 2014 11:13:43 AM
The United States says it is reviewing its relationship with Uganda after its president signed a law imposing harsh penalties for homosexuality.
WASHINGTON, DC, UNITED STATES (FEBRUARY 24, 2014) (NBC) - The United States said on Monday (February 24) it is reviewing its relationship withUganda's government, including U.S. assistance programs that are heavily focused on fighting HIV/AIDS, after its president signed a law imposing harsh penalties for homosexuality.
"We will continue to urge the government of Uganda to repeal this abhorrent law and to advocate for the protection of the universal human rights of LGBT persons in Uganda and around the world. What I can tell you about steps the United States might take in response is that we are undertaking a review of its -- of our relationship with Uganda in light of this decision," White Housespokesperson Jay Carney said.Uganda's president signed a law imposing harsh penalties for homosexuality on Monday, defying protests from rights groups and criticism from the West.
The new bill strengthened existing punishments for anyone caught having gay sex, imposing jail terms of up to life for "aggravated homosexuality" - including sex with a minor or while HIV-positive.
It criminalized lesbianism for the first time and made it a crime to help individuals engage in homosexual acts. Gay rights activists in Uganda said they planned a legal challenge.