Current Affairs
The Battle for Equality: How Uganda’s Anti-Homosexuality Bill Could Impact Human Rights Across Africa
The fight for equal rights has been a long and ongoing battle, especially for members of the LGBTQIA+ community. Uganda’s Anti-Homosexuality Bill has been a controversial topic for years, and its potential impact on human rights across Africa cannot be ignored. The bill, which seeks to criminalize homosexuality, has faced significant backlash from activists, human rights organizations, and international governments. Supporters argue that the bill is necessary to protect Uganda’s culture and values, while opponents argue that it violates fundamental human rights. The battle for equality is far from over, and the outcome of this bill could have significant implications for human rights and LGBTQIA+ communities in Africa and beyond. In this article, we will explore the history of the bill, its potential impact, and the ongoing fight for equality in Uganda and beyond.
Uganda’s Anti-Homosexuality Bill
Uganda’s Anti-Homosexuality Bill, also known as the ‘Kill the Gays’ bill, was first introduced in 2009. The bill proposed harsh punishments for homosexuality, including life imprisonment and even the death penalty. The bill was initially introduced by Member of Parliament David Bahati, who argued that homosexuality was a threat to Uganda’s national values and morality.
The bill was met with significant backlash from both the international community and human rights organizations. Activists argued that the bill violated fundamental human rights, including the right to privacy, the right to freedom of expression and the right to non-discrimination. The bill also faced criticism from international governments, with countries such as the United States threatening to cut aid to Uganda if the bill was passed.
Despite the backlash, the bill was passed by Uganda’s parliament in 2013, and signed into law by President Yoweri Museveni. However, the law was later struck down by the Ugandan Constitutional Court on a technicality, but it was reintroduced in 2019, causing further concern among human rights activists.
Human rights violations in Uganda
Uganda has a long history of human rights violations, including the persecution of the LGBTQIA+ community. Discrimination against LGBTQIA+ individuals is deeply ingrained in Ugandan society, with many people believing that homosexuality is a Western import that goes against traditional Ugandan culture and values.
Homosexuality was already illegal in Uganda before the introduction of the Anti-Homosexuality Bill, but the bill proposed even harsher punishments for same-sex relationships. The bill also proposed criminalizing the promotion of homosexuality, which could be interpreted to include support for LGBTQIA+ rights or even providing healthcare to LGBTQIA+ individuals.
The passage of the bill in 2013 led to a significant increase in violence and discrimination against LGBTQIA+ individuals in Uganda. Many people were forced to flee the country, while others faced harassment and even imprisonment. The bill also had a chilling effect on LGBTQIA+ activism and advocacy, with many individuals and organizations forced to operate in secret for fear of persecution.
The impact of the bill on the LGBT+ community
The passage of the Anti-Homosexuality Bill had a devastating impact on the LGBTQIA+ community in Uganda. The bill not only criminalized same-sex relationships but also made it illegal to advocate for LGBTQIA+ rights or provide support to LGBTQIA+ individuals. This had a significant impact on the ability of LGBTQIA+ individuals to access healthcare, education, and other essential services.
The bill also led to an increase in violence and discrimination against LGBTQIA+ individuals in Uganda. Many people were forced to flee the country, while others faced harassment and even imprisonment. The passage of the bill also had a chilling effect on LGBTQIA+ activism and advocacy, with many individuals and organizations forced to operate in secret for fear of persecution.
Despite the challenges faced by the LGBTQIA+ community in Uganda, there are many organizations working towards equality and human rights for all individuals. These organizations provide support and advocacy for LGBTQIA+ individuals, and work to raise awareness of the challenges faced by the community in Uganda and beyond.
The impact of the bill on the fight for human rights in Africa
The passage of Uganda’s Anti-Homosexuality Bill has had a significant impact on the fight for human rights in Africa. The bill not only violates fundamental human rights but also sets a dangerous precedent for other countries in the region. The criminalization of homosexuality in Uganda has emboldened other countries to follow suit, with many countries in Africa already having laws that criminalize same-sex relationships.
The passage of the bill has also had a chilling effect on human rights activism and advocacy in Uganda and beyond. Many individuals and organizations working towards human rights and equality have been forced to operate in secret, for fear of persecution. The passage of the bill sends a message that human rights and equality are not valued in Uganda, and could have a ripple effect across the region.
Response from the international community
The passage of Uganda’s Anti-Homosexuality Bill was met with significant backlash from the international community. Many countries threatened to cut aid to Uganda if the bill was passed, while human rights organizations condemned the bill as a violation of fundamental human rights.
The international response to the bill highlighted the importance of global solidarity in the fight for human rights and equality. Many countries and organizations spoke out against the bill, sending a message that discrimination and persecution will not be tolerated.
How individuals can support the fight for equality
Individuals can support the fight for equality by raising awareness of the challenges faced by the LGBTQIA+ community in Uganda and Africa. This can be done through social media, advocacy, and supporting organizations that work towards equality and human rights.
Supporting organisations such as SMUG, The African Queer Youth Initiative, and the Pan Africa ILGA can also have a significant impact on the fight for equality in Africa. Donations, volunteering, and advocacy can all help to support the work of these organisations and make a difference in the lives of LGBTQIA+ individuals in Uganda and beyond.The fight for equality is far from over, and the battle for human rights in Africa is ongoing. Uganda’s Anti-Homosexuality Bill represents a significant challenge for the LGBTQIA+ community and human rights activists in the region. The bill not only violates fundamental human rights but also sets a dangerous precedent for other countries in Africa.
Despite the challenges faced by the LGBTQIA+ community in Uganda and Africa, there are many organizations working towards equality and human rights for all individuals. These organizations provide support and advocacy for LGBTQIA+ individuals, and work to raise awareness of the challenges faced by the community in Uganda and beyond.
Individuals can support the fight for equality by raising awareness, supporting organisations working towards equality, and advocating for human rights and equality for all individuals. The battle for equality is far from over, but through global solidarity and continued advocacy, progress can be made towards a more just and equal future for all.
The results of an in-depth survey conducted by African Innovation Research SA (AIRSA) point to the country’s future being in the hands of coalitions and raise concerns about voter apathy, especially among the youth.
The initial sample comprised some 5 000 participants, of whom 46% confirmed they were either not interested in voting despite being registered or had not registered.
The majority of those surveyed by the independent research company based in Cape Town were in the 18–35 age group, a generation who are increasingly disillusioned with how the country is run.
The remaining 2 700 participants, who were interviewed from across a broad section of South Africa’s nine provinces, indicated that support for the ruling ANC is in decline, dipping below the 50% mark to 43% overall.
The ANC’s strongholds remain the Eastern Cape (61% of those surveyed), 58% in the Free State and 65% in Limpopo, where its challenger is the EFF at 23.7%.
In the country’s fourth-largest economy, Mpumalanga, the ANC leads with 52.3%, the EFF at 21.7% and the DA at 19.7%.
In the North West province, it’s a similar pattern, albeit reversed, with the ANC at 48.3%, the DA at 27.7% and the EFF at 20.0%, while in the Northern Cape, the ANC leads with 47.3%, followed by the DA with 24.3% and the EFF with 15.7%.
The country’s economic engine, Gauteng, is a key player in the power dynamics. Here, the ANC garnered 38.7%, but the EFF is growing its base to 19.3%, challenging the DA’s 20% of the province’s voters.
In the Western Cape, as expected, the DA holds onto a leading margin at 46.0%, with the ANC and EFF at 22.3% and 8.7% respectively. Gayton McKenzie’s Patriotic Alliance (PA) also features in the country’s southernmost province, making a notable showing at 5%.
While former president Jacob Zuma may have been barred from becoming a member of Parliament in the Constitutional Court this week, the new uMkhonto weSizwe Party (MKP) will play a pivotal role in KwaZulu-Natal. Results of the AIRSA survey show that while the ANC currently remains ahead with 28.7%, it’s an even race in the province with similar support for the IFP at 26.0% and MKP at 26.7%.
As experience dictates, the smaller parties will begin a series of bargaining tactics as to whose deck they end up in and call the shots.
At collectively accounting for around 20% of the upcoming vote, these potential coalition partners carry significant influence.
AIRSA also noted that voting in this sector is personality-driven as opposed to ideology.
The fragmentation of South Africa’s political landscape could also contribute to increasing dissatisfaction and disillusionment, particularly when linked to the country’s youth and increasing unemployment.
© IOL (Cape Times)
CCTV video footage confirmed what many people in the music industry knew was brewing: a moment of reckoning for one of the most influential hip-hop artists in history.
The clips of Sean “Diddy” Combs kicking his former girlfriend Cassie Ventura – as she lay motionless on the floor – cemented his downfall, despite his apology after the leak.
“I don’t see a path for him to come back from this,” said Amy DuBois Barnett, the former editor-in-chief of Ebony magazine, who has written about hip-hop culture.
Combs’ reputation in the industry had been “chequered for some time,” added Barnett. “Many people were aware of his pretty unbridled temper.”
Combs – formerly known as P Diddy, Puff Daddy or Puffy – is one of the best-selling and most acclaimed artists of all time, with three Grammy Awards and millions of record sales to his name.
For years, nothing really affected his rise to icon status as an artist, producer and businessman. There were negative stories in the industry, said Barnett, but much of it stayed out of the public eye.
Last November, Ms Ventura settled a lawsuit against Combs – in which she accused him of rape and sexual trafficking – for an undisclosed sum. But Combs’ lawyer said the settlement was “in no way an admission of wrongdoing”.
Celebrities continued to voice support for him, but that ended with the CCTV video obtained by CNN and published last week.
The assault shown in the footage is brutal. After kicking Ms Ventura like a football, Combs, wearing just a towel, is seen dragging her across the floor.
The video appears to be a compilation of surveillance footage angles dated 5 March 2016, which CNN said was filmed at the InterContinental Hotel in Century City, Los Angeles. In her lawsuit, Ms Ventura had described a March 2016 incident at that hotel, in which Combs allegedly attacked her.
A string of other lawsuits have since been brought against Combs for abuse, sexual misconduct and rape. The latest was filed on Tuesday by Crystal McKinney, a former model and winner of MTV’s 1998 Model Mission competition.
She claimed she was “drugged and sexually assaulted” in 2003 by Combs following a fashion event in New York. BBC News has contacted Diddy’s representatives for comment on the claims.
When the first lawsuits were filed, the rapper called the accusations “sickening” and said the alleged victims were looking for “a quick pay day”.
But the video of the assault on Ms Ventura undermined those denials.
Combs was silent for two days after its release, before posting an apology to Instagram, admitting it was him in the tape and calling his actions “inexcusable”.
“I was disgusted then when I did it,” he said, “and I’m disgusted now.”
“I went and I sought out professional help,” he continued. “I got into going to therapy, going to rehab. I had to ask God for his mercy and grace. I’m so sorry.”
Combs did not mention Cassie Ventura in his apology, and her lawyers hit back, saying: “Combs’ recent statement is more about himself than the many people he has hurt.”
The apology was “too little too late,” said Camron Dowlatshahi, an entertainment lawyer in Los Angeles. “It shows the short-sightedness of Diddy, thinking he’s not going to be held accountable and that he has enough money to take care of everything.
Barnett, who has written about misogyny in the rap industry, described the statement as “the most ill-advised apology ever”. She suggested it was from the “classic ‘famous man’ playbook: deny, deny, deny. Get caught. Apologise, then talk about going to therapy.”
“No-one’s taking it seriously, particularly because he previously accused Cassie and others of being gold-diggers. That really angered a lot of people in the music industry.”
In April, news helicopters on both the US east and west coasts filmed police raids on mansions linked to the rapper. They were part of an ongoing criminal investigation by law enforcement into sex trafficking.
The man who was idolised as a hip-hop legend has been lying low since then.
Family pictures with his daughters posted to Combs’ Instagram account are in stark contrast to the images of him carrying out a violent assault.
The Los Angeles District Attorney’s Office said on Friday that it would not be able to bring charges due to the statute of limitations for assault. So where does the CCTV video, and the ongoing investigation, leave his career?
In his music, Diddy has often relied on collaborations with other A-list stars. His last album featured Mary J Blige, The Weekend, 21 Savage, and John Legend. He is extremely unlikely to be able to recreate such productions now.
But whether there will be an effect on his vast number of listeners is less clear. Fitness company Peloton has banned his music from its workout playlists already, according to TMZ, but other companies are yet to comment.
R Kelly continues to get millions of monthly listeners on Spotify, despite convictions for child sexual abuse.
Meanwhile, Kanye West experienced a peak in his monthly listeners last year, despite being dropped by brands for expressing antisemitic views.
Those who passed by Diddy’s star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame this week reflected on what the video meant to the rapper’s fans.
“It’s career-ending. I don’t know how he’s going to come back from this,” said Mar Anthony, a Los Angeles local. “I was a fan when I was a kid, listening to Every Breath You Take (I’ll Be Missing You). But what he did and the music, they’re two different things.
“It’s the same thing with Michael Jackson,” he said, nodding towards another Walk of Fame star that lies not far away – in an apparent reference to allegations of child abuse made against that star.
Diddy “definitely deserves what is coming to him”, said Prince Laurenz Hamlin, who was visiting LA. “But he still has built a legacy in the music industry. I think people will have to separate the art from the artist.”
One woman, after snapping a photo of Combs’ star, simply muttered “predator” as she walked away.
It is unclear who is currently advising Sean Combs. The law firm that previously issued denials on his behalf has said it no longer represents him.
Despite the civil lawsuits there have been no criminal charges filed against him. But the ongoing police investigation will no doubt be weighing heavily on the rapper.
“The Department of Homeland Security was involved [in the raids],” said Mr Dowlatshahi. “Just that fact alone shows the severity of what’s going on here.”
© BBC News
Iran’s supreme leader has presided over a funeral for the country’s late president, foreign minister and others killed in a helicopter crash on Sunday.
Ayatollah Ali Khamenei led prayers at Tehran University, where caskets carrying the dead were draped in Iranian flags.
President Ebrahim Raisi died alongside Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian and six others in a helicopter crash near the border with Azerbaijan.
Authorities had warned against demonstrations against the funeral procession and insults posted online.
“Oh Allah, we didn’t see anything but good from him,” Ayatollah Khamenei said in the standard prayer for the dead in Arabic.
Iran’s acting president, Mohammad Mokhber, stood nearby and openly wept during the service.
People then carried the coffins out on their shoulders, with chants of “Death to America” heard outside.
They loaded them onto a trailer for a procession through downtown Tehran to Azadi Square, where Raisi gave speeches in the past.
In attendance were top leaders of Iran’s paramilitary Revolutionary Guard, one of the country’s major power centres.
Also on hand was Ismail Haniyeh of Hamas, the militant group that Iran has armed and supported during the ongoing Israel-Hamas war.
Haniyeh is widely considered Hamas’s overall leader and has been a prominent member of the movement since 1980. The US Department of State designated him a terrorist in 2018.
“I come in the name of the Palestinian people, in the name of the resistance factions of Gaza…to express our condolences,” Haniyeh said.
He also described meeting Raisi in Tehran during Ramadan, the holy Muslim fasting month.
He said he heard the president say that “the Palestinian issue” remains the key one of the Muslim world, which “must fulfil their obligations to the Palestinians to liberate their land”.
He also claimed that Raisi called Hamas’ October 7 attack in Israel, which saw 1,200 people killed and 250 others taken hostage, an “earthquake in the heart of the Zionist entity”.
Also expected to attend services in Tehran were Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and a delegation from the Taliban of Afghanistan, which included their Foreign Minister Amir Khan Mutaqqi.
Iran’s theocracy declared five days of mourning over Sunday’s crash, encouraging people to attend the public mourning sessions.
Typically, government employees and schoolchildren attend such events en masse, while others take part out of patriotism, curiosity or to witness historic events.
For Iran’s Shiite theocracy, mass demonstrations have been crucial to demonstrating the legitimacy of their leadership since millions thronged the streets of Tehran to welcome Grand Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini in 1979 during the Islamic Revolution, and also attended his funeral 10 years later.
An estimated one million turned out in 2020 for processions for the late Revolutionary Guard General Qasem Soleimani, who was killed in a US drone strike in Baghdad.
Across the capital, large banners were raised hailing Raisi as “the martyr of service”, while others bade “farewell to the servant of the disadvantaged”.
Some residents in Tehran received texts urging them to attend Wednesday’s ceremonies, the AFP news agency reported.
Footage carried by state TV showed streets filled with mourners, many of whom were carrying pictures of Raisi or the Iranian flag.
Funeral rites for the men began on Tuesday in the city of Tabriz and the Shiite clerical centre of Qom, where thousands of mourners attended ceremonies.
After Wednesday’s procession in the capital, Raisi’s remains will be moved to South Khorasan province, before being transferred to his home city of Mashhad in the northeast.
He will then be buried on Thursday evening in the city after funeral rites at the Imam Reza shrine.
Raisi, a hardline cleric, was a highly divisive figure in Iran. In the 1980s, he oversaw the execution of scores of opposition activists while working as a prosecutor.
He unleashed a brutal crackdown against demonstrators angered by the killing of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini in 2022. She died three days after she was detained by morality police in the capital for allegedly violating Iran’s strict rules requiring women to cover their hair with a hijab, or headscarf.
But his ultra-conservative outlook won favour with supporters of the regime, and Raisi was viewed as a possible successor to Ayatollah Khamenei.
© BBC News
Current Affairs
Shoprite to cooperate with police after Heidelberg man dies following alleged confinement in store cold room
Without divulging any details regarding the allegations over the death of a Gauteng man, retailer Shoprite stated that they would cooperate with the South African Police Services (SAPS).
IOL initially reported that a 13-year-old boy who was accused of stealing a chocolate, had been locked in a cold store room, where he subsequently died.
However police have clarified that the victim is 33-years-old.
Gauteng police spokesperson Colonel Noxolo Kweza said Ratanda police have opened a case of assault common as well as an inquest docket.
“This follows an alleged incident where two men accused of shoplifting were locked at the back of the store.
“One of the men, aged 33, during closing time complained of stomach aches, paramedics were called and he was declared dead on the scene.”
It is alleged a 33-year-old man was accused of stealing a bar of chocolate from a Shoprite store in Ratanda in Heidelberg, south of Gauteng.
When approached for comment, the supermarket chain extended its condolences to the victim’s family following their loss.
“The allegations are seen in an extremely serious light and the necessary steps will be taken pending the outcome of a full investigation.
“We cannot comment on the details of the incident as it is a police matter, and the local South African Police Service (SAPS) should be contacted for more information.
“We always give our full cooperation and provide all available information to the SAPS to assist their investigation.”
On Monday, angry community members gathered outside the store demanding answers.
© IOL
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