Christians in Uganda are organizing nationwide demonstrations and fasting to protest US President Barack Obama and growing international opposition to a proposed anti-homosexuality bill.
They say that homsexuality is not only unChristian but it is inhumane and therefore are against anyone who protects it..
“No one should intimidate us against withdrawing the anti gay bill” said pastor Solomon Male of an organization called Arising for Christ. To us homsexuality is unacceptable. We will demonstrate to show the world that we are totally against homosexuality.”
The proposed law seeks the death penalty against people convicted of aggravated homosexuality with minors and those who knowingly infect others with HIV. It also wants parents and school authorities to disclose any child believed to be gay.
White House in a statement said President Obama strongly opposes the proposed law that would criminalize homosexuality and move against the tide of history.
Condemnations have also come from the Netherlands, the UK, France, Canada and Sweden which has threatened to cut financial assistance.
The Uganda Joint Christian Council, which comprises Catholics, Anglicans, Orthodox and Pentecostals, has strongly protested the condemnations. It says the attacks on Uganda because of the bill are uncalled for since Uganda is a sovereign state with right to decide what is good for its people.
Pastor Dr Martin Sempa, a member of the joint Christian council and organizer of the demonstration, stated that “the massive protest will start with a demonstration on Tuesday next week. The Christmas festive season and January 2010 would also be for preaching and fasting against homosexuality.”
Pastor Sempa has warned members of parliament who will not support the bill, saying efforts will be made to have them thrown out of parliament in the 2011 elections.
Sempa said, “Obama and other donor state are threatening Uganda but we are against homosexuality. We will carry out demonstrations throughout the country country to show solidarity against homosexuality.”
Debate on the bill is expected to start in February 2010 after the Christmas recess.
