Ugandan minister issues stern warning to gay community

Uganda's government will continue to suppress activities organised by the lesbian, gay bisexual and transgender (LGBT) community, Ethics and Integrity Minister Simon Lokodo has said, as he defended last week's police crackdown on Gay Pride Week.


He told reporters:

The promotion of gay activities is unwelcome in this nation...We have noted that the promotions being held are aimed at mobilizing people to join this LGBT movement, which goes against the argument that gays are born that way.

In our own cultural setting, anything to do with sexuality is reserved, and left only to take place in private, between four walls and in confidentiality. It is not acceptable that homosexuality be allowed to be performed anywhere, any time, anyhow."

A programme to rehabilitate the members of LGBTI community with the ultimate aim of giving them a chance to live normal lives again has been developed in my office. And government remains committed to ensuring that Ugandans live to their cherished values and principles."

Police raided a Gay Pride week event at a nightclub  in the capital, Kampala, on Thursday.

Uganda's small LGBTI community had organised a Mr and Ms Pride event, as part of the Gay Pride week.

Organisers were also forced to cancel a parade planned for Saturday following pressure from  the government.