Legislators have paid tribute to the Speaker of Parliament, Rebecca Kadaga, over what they called consistently upholding and protecting Uganda’s cultural values.
MP meeting at the Inter Parliamentary Union (IPU) in Geneva from 14 to 18 October, 2018 voted to ban debate on the subject of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender (LGBT) from appearing in the IPU agenda ever again.
The Ugandan delegation, led by Speaker Rebecca Kadaga, spearheaded the move against what they termed as a well-orchestrated machination led by Canada and Belgium who had lobbied many delegates to vote in favor of the motion.
Bufumbira County Member of Parliament and former Minister of Ethics and Integrity, Nsaba Buturo moved the motion to commend Kadaga for her contribution in the IPU meeting.
He noted that Kadaga championed a worthy and victorious cause, saying that both her performance and leadership has shown Ugandans her true character.
“This is not the first time that you have engaged in battles on an international stage on behalf of Uganda. This time you have engaged in this battle and emerged victorious,” said Buturo.
He urged Ugandans to stop being timid and fearful whenever the country’s interests, values and morals are threatened.
Over 25 MPs who contributed to the debate on the motion in a session which lasted one hour and applauded the Speaker, saying that her decision to stand for what is right has saved Uganda and the whole world from barbaric acts of homosexuality.
MP Alum Santa said the Kadaga’s straight forwardness has set an example to many Ugandans and leaders. “When we go out as Uganda to negotiate or represent the country, we should remember our aspirations. Leaders should not be threatened by aid withdrawal; we cannot trade our values for aid,” she said
Kilak South County MP Gilbert Olanya said, Kadaga’s boldness is a reflection of her great leadership.
“The way you defended the people of Uganda outside the country, you should do the same in the country and be the president of this country,” he said.
The Minister of State for Housing, Dr. Chris Baryomunsi said that as opposed to arguments that homosexuality is inborn; it is a behavior that should be rejected.
“Homosexuals don’t produce children, they increase numbers by recruiting,” said Baryomunsi.
MPs, Joy Atim Ongom and Annet Nyakecho) called for the re-tabling of the Anti-Homosexuality Act.
“In the Ninth Parliament, we missed the opportunity of legislating against homosexuality because of issues of quorum. I request that this law be brought back so that we show the world that homosexuality is not needed,” said Ongom.
Buhweju County MP Francis Mwijukye who was part of the delegation to Geneva recounted their experience in Geneva.
“We saw members of our neighboring countries disappearing because they did not want to be seen. There was a risk of members of IPU being compromised; it was not easy. The Speaker did great work in mobilizing not only Ugandans but the whole world,” said Mwijukye.
Kadaga commended the delegation, saying that they exhibited a high level of commitment during the meeting.
“I want to urge all of us that when we go for meetings, we have to attend until the end. Most of the times when you move out of the meetings, that is when some issues are smuggled in,” She said .