Uganda declares anti-homosexual bill 'a foreign policy issue'
14/01/2010
Uganda's leader has stated that the country's anti-homosexuality bill, which proposed the death penalty for those found engaging in gay sex, is being re-worked and is a foreign policy issue.
According to the country's president Yoweri Museveni, the bill needs further consultation before it can be passed.
Despite widespread support for its introduction among various establishments in the country, international pressure has piled on Mr Museveni to scrap the controversial plans.
Condemnation of the bill has been expressed by contributors to the country's budget.
"It's a foreign policy issue, and we must handle it in a way that does not compromise our principles but also takes into account our foreign policy interests," he explained.
Spokesperson for Sexual Minorities Uganda David Kato described the bill as a "blow to democracy" and a hindrance to the nation's political and economic development.
Written by Dan Parr
