The visa of Uganda’s Speaker of Parliament has been revoked by the United States, following the enactment of anti-LGBTQ legislation in the country. Lawmaker Asuman Basalirwa confirmed that Speaker Anita Among is the first individual affected by potential sanctions.
Basalirwa disclosed that an email had been received, stating that Among’s current visa had been canceled. The email, which Basalirwa displayed to journalists, mentioned that the revocation was based on new information obtained after the visa was last issued. Among was informed that she no longer possessed a valid visa as of May 12, 2023, although she could reapply if desired.
Basalirwa stated that Among has been advised to send her passport to the US Embassy through the Ministry of Finance for necessary adjustments to her visa. The Bugiri Municipality MP remarked that the speaker is believed to have been targeted for her US visa, which was not found.
The recently passed legislation imposes severe penalties, potentially including life imprisonment, for engaging in homos*xual acts. Despite international pressure, President Museveni signed the anti-gay bill into law.
In response, Among publicly expressed Parliament’s commitment to uphold the interests of the people of Uganda. She encouraged the responsible authorities to execute their duties under the Anti-Homos*xuality Act and enforce the law in a fair and firm manner.
As of now, the US Mission has not provided any comments on the matter.
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