GayUganda

The two Churches

2009-07-16T17:57:00.006+03:00

Forgive my bad poetry.

It was ‘inspired’ by this article. I have always known of the Episcopal Church’s position on gay people.

I heard when Gene Robinson was made a Bishop, and of course, the brouhaha in the Anglican Communion which followed that. I didn’t know that the ‘Episcopal’ Church was part of the Anglican Communion, but I was adequately schooled by the rise of Akinola, and of course my country mate Orombi.

I was ‘born’ into the Church of Uganda, and once upon a time flirted with the Pentecostals. Before I came to my ‘current persuasion’. Maybe it is fair to say I have no faith, at the moment, but I continue to be very interested in matters of faith. My lover is a staunch Catholic. At least he was, till my lack of faith, (and homophobic pronouncements from the Holy See), shook him. I have many kuchu friends who believe deeply. Strongly. I support them. My lack of faith is a personal conviction. Why should I force it onto others? One can say an atheist is a believer. Of course it is true, though the atheist’s faith is the belief in the lack of a god. But that is digressing.
I was reasonably schooled in the Christian faith, and still love the teachings of Jesus. About love, practical love. And other things.

Anyway, in the same Church, or, as they call it, Body of Christ, one part, calling themselves conservatives have come out with a virulent, tough position with regards to people of my sexuality. They affirm that it is not natural, not normal, not scriptural. They have been militant, to the point of threatening to tear apart the Communion of the body, to usher in a new Reformation, because of differences in issues about my sexuality.

Orombi of the Church of Uganda is a particular leader in that. Martin Ssempa is another leader. He is rabid, in comparison to Orombi. Martin has instituted a gay witch-hunt within the Church, and within the country, using his considerable charisma and political acumen. He has been very successful recently, though his obsession with homosexuality pre-dates this years’ events. He is currently forging alliances with Moslems, other Christian groups, to fight homosexuality within the country. Stated aim is to ‘Kick Homosexuality out of Uganda’. Lofty ideal indeed.

Contrast this with what is happening in America.

I am quite aware of the fact that homosexuals were persecuted in America, and Europe. I am aware of the Nazi concentration camps, the Stonewall riots in ’69. What most Ugandans (and Africans) believe is that it has always been ok for homosexuals in the west. So they term it a ‘Western evil’.

Fast forward to now, in the US, a country where homosexuals were zapped with electricity in an effort to reboot our sexuality and make us heterosexuals, where they were hunted because of being security risks, part of the body of Christ is coming out and saying, enough is enough.

They acknowledged that, we are human beings. They acknowledged that we are natural, normal.

It is thrilling to understand that they accept that we are as fully Children of God as they are, despite the apparent ‘scriptural’ contradictions, which the conservatives bible-bash us with. The evolution of this thought has taken time, but it has come quietly, consistently, and strongly. With a certain grim inevitability.

When Gene Robinson was elected Bishop, the rest of the Anglican communion went mad. They couldn’t believe what had happened with their American brothers. From what I read, the Americans were taken aback. They didn’t expect that this kind of thing would happen. They were forced to go slow, in their acknowledgement of us as members of the body of Christ, despite our differences.

The conservatives have nearly split the church. Matter of fact, seems they went all the way but. They leaned back, at the last moment. These are momentous times. Funny that I have been following that friction on this very blog.

The ‘progressives’, despite the fact that they had been told to go slow for the sake of the whole communion, held on, for long enough. But they have taken the next step. Bravely, succinctly, knowing the problems. They are adamant in what they believe.

They believe that us homosexuals are also children of God.

What a challenge! What a testimony!

The part I liked best in this article is why they have taken the extraordinary step, in spite, and despite the opposition from their brethren. To quote, “they felt compelled to act because of their pastoral responsibility to gay couples who were increasingly coming forward to ask the church to bless their unions. Many also said they saw it as a simple matter of granting equal rights to gay men and lesbians.”

Once they took the step to accept us into the body of Christ, they saw the logical extension of that. We are as human as they are. Not second class citizens or believers. So, when we ask for what the rest of the children of God are receiving, what logic is their in denying us the blessings of God?

A related article with an interesting analysis is here.

Hey, you wondering what they did? Here it is "the church voted to open the door to ordaining openly gay bishops. And on Thursday the bishops voted to start the process of developing rites for blessing same-sex marriages, and to give the green light to bishops who are already doing so.

Hallelujah!

gayuganda

Tell me Again

2009-07-16T13:05:00.000+03:00

You don’t hate me?

Ok, tell me, again

for I am slow, to understand

weak of mind, quicker to flame,

and anger-

tell me again

Why I prison deserve;

for loving him, the man I love.

[He is beautiful, he loves me,

holds me in his arms,

and makes love to me;

he holds me at night,

chases the terrors away,

kisses, touches, holds, loves

and he’s all for me]

tell me again-

Why you spit at me?

Ok, you’s a big man,

known, honoured,

you have all, that I lack-

a woman to love,

children, money, social standing

I see you on TV, radio

hear your voice, your laugh

in my head, nightmares

as you threaten prison,

tell me again, how much you love me?

Tell me of your love, please-

you know so little, and much;

and say too much-

you deny me family;

clan, tribe, country-

tell me again, how much you love me?

I am bad, corrupt, evil, a devil

to taint and steal children-

corrupt and tempt youths;

to preach about on Sunday,

and cast away, out of church-

tell me again, how much you love me?

I do not deserve,

a place at your god’s table-

he is your god, I am a sinner;

and you his priest, to preach his love

Strange love that you preach;

love stilled in hate,

loud in spit, low in touch,

tell me again how I love to hate,

and you love to love

tell me again… please?

©GayUganda 16 July 2009

For Laughs

2009-07-15T22:16:00.001+03:00

OBSERVER LOCKER ROOM: Is sodomy real in Ugandan football?

Sports

Written by OUR STAFF

Wednesday, 15 July 2009 18:14

Homosexuality talk has dominated the past few weeks in Ugandan football and the ever vibrant locker-room hasn’t been spared;

Vianney: Eh! This homosexuality talk has even got to the FUFA President. He sounded a warning to those involved.

James Tumusiime: But surely, instead of concentrating on sorting our more pertinent problems, we are discussing Homosexuality.

Echwalu: I really can’t say much on the subject because I’m not sure it exists in Ugandan football.

Ssemuwemba: The only guy that I have seen being pinned so far is Charles Ayiekoh. But he looked innocent to me.

Kiggundu: How did you find out when you didn’t sleep in the same room with him?

Vianney: But seriously, Ayiekoh actually insinuated that he was being tarnished by some football people that don’t like him.

Kiggundu: Don’t be fooled by a guy who is trying to show innocence. Investigate the guy and be sure. For now, he’s guilty until proven innocent to me.

Jeff: You enjoy pinning guys Edris but how do you say that the guy is gay when you have no proof?

Vianney: For me my concern is that gay incidents have been talked about in Villa but no official has ever been brought to book.

Lumu: That’s the problem with you jokers…you only stop at ‘someone.’ Why not mention him?

Vianney: Eh, are you ready to defend it in court?

Lumu: Then just shut up and save us from your rumours

Vianney: Anyway…I hope FUFA and Police produce evidence on Ayiekoh to prove his guilt or innocence. Otherwise, no one from FUFA has tackled the Villa talk since.

Zziwa: Well, the issue has always been the lack of evidence.

Ssemujju: There is no way we can let such an immoral act thrive in Uganda. No way. Thank God it’s not at Express but at Villa.

James Tumusiime: What people do in their private lives is their business. Homosexuality isn’t a concern to me.

Sebugwawo: I agree. What an adult decides to do, is his business provided it doesn’t hurt me directly.

Vianney: Just imagine if it was your relative being sodomized. Wouldn’t it matter still?

Sebugwawo: But Vianney, none of them is forced.

Vianney: Maybe not; but they’re manipulated. I hear in Villa, a player who didn’t give in wouldn’t get football boots.

Jeff: Is that true?

Vianney: So I heard. I guess a commission of inquiry ought to be appointed to get info from victims and remove perpetrators.

Sebugwawo: All that is crap. The fact remains no victim has ever come out in the open.

Vianney: Eh, I’m, getting worried about you Bugos…I just hope I’m wrong in my thinking about your sexuality.

Sebugwawo: Haha…why don’t you get me a woman and I prove you wrong?

Vianney: Man…I’ve got married and cannot risk

Orombi's fight

2009-07-15T12:09:00.001+03:00

Episcopal leaders vote to lift ban on gay bishops

The church may move to sanction blessings for same-sex couples as well, further alienating conservative parishes.

By Duke Helfand

July 15, 2009

The Episcopal Church, casting aside warnings about further alienating conservatives within its ranks, on Tuesday lifted a de facto ban on the ordination of gay bishops and is continuing to weigh a measure that would sanction blessings for same-sex couples.

Bishops, clergy and lay leaders voted overwhelmingly at the denomination's General Convention in Anaheim to open "any ordained ministry" to gays and lesbians.

The liberalized policy represents a reversal from guidelines adopted by the church at its last convention in 2006 that effectively prohibited the consecration of bishops whose "manner of life" would strain relations with the 77-million member Anglican Communion. The Episcopal Church is the U.S. branch of the communion.

The new approach is likely to deepen theological fissures that led some traditionalist Episcopal congregations and dioceses last month to form a rival church. And it is almost certain to trigger a backlash among conservative Anglican leaders who have urged the U.S. church to refrain from relaxing ordination and marriage standards.

But progressives in the 2.1-million member denomination said the move toward inclusion reflects the reality of a church that is home to many partnered gays and lesbians who belong to parishes that encourage their involvement and already bless their unions.

"Being an Episcopalian means you can disagree and still worship together," said the Rt. Rev. J. Jon Bruno, bishop of the Diocese of Los Angeles. "We're going to leave the door open for all those who disagree with us to find a place here and peace here."

Tensions have been mounting since 2003, when a partnered gay priest, V. Gene Robinson, was consecrated as bishop of New Hampshire. Several conservative Anglican leaders, especially in Africa, cut ties to the U.S. church after his election.

The spiritual leader of the Anglican Communion, Archbishop of Canterbury Rowan Williams, had expressed apprehension during a brief visit to the conference last week about decisions "that could push us further apart."

On Tuesday, an elated Robinson celebrated the lopsided vote in the church's two legislative bodies -- the House of Bishops and the House of Deputies, composed of clergy and laity.

"I'm simply delighted at the possibility that another diocese will recognize the gifts of a gay or lesbian clergy person," he said. "I long for the day when someone who shares my experience as an openly gay bishop joins me in the House of Bishops. It has been lonely."

But a bishop who left the church last year predicted that the decisions made in Anaheim would increase strains with disaffected conservatives.

"Clearly the activists have done a good job promoting their agenda," said the Rt. Rev. Martyn Minns, a founding bishop of the newly formed Anglican Church in North America, which hopes to gain recognition from the Anglican Communion as a rival province to the Episcopal Church.

"The generosity shown by the rest of the communion has been astonishing and has been thrown back in their face," Minns said. "There will have to be a renegotiation of how the Episcopal Church fits into the family."

The measure to consecrate gay bishops won the support of more than two-thirds of the denomination's two legislative houses. The church's presiding bishop, the Most. Rev. Katharine Jefferts Schori, also supported it.

The resolution seeks to reassure Anglican leaders about the U.S. church's loyalty, saying that the convention reaffirms its "abiding commitment" and financial support for the communion.

But the measure also affirms that "God has called" gays and lesbians in partnered relationships to "any ordained ministry in the Episcopal Church," adding that the call "is a mystery which the church attempts to discern for all people."

Church leaders said the new policy does not repeal the 3-year-old moratorium but instead calls for Episcopal officials to abide by church canons, which prohibit discrimination based on sexual orientation.

Debate on a separate measure concerning blessings for same-sex unions is expected today in the House of Bishops, which postponed a vote Tuesday after members asked for more time to discuss the issue.

The measure would allow bishops to "provide generous pastoral response" to gay and lesbian couples, but it would not require those who object to deliver the blessings. Several bishops and lay leaders said they expected a compromise that would permit blessings.

The Rev. Susan Russell, president of Integrity USA, a group that represents gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender people in the church, said the Anaheim convention would send a message to the global communion that the church is "committed to both honesty and unity."

But Russell acknowledged the potential for continued conflict.

"There are absolutely challenges," she said. "There is no attempting to skirt the fact that what we are doing is stepping beyond where many in the communion would prefer we go."

The Issues With Homosexuality

2009-07-14T21:22:00.001+03:00

Moses Banturaki13 July 2009

At first there was a man on TV saying he had seen the light and repented, and soon after told of a recruiting drive in schools.

Then there were a couple of high profile pastors and some boys counter accusing each other.

Most recently, a football coach was almost lynched by boys who he had 'touched' inappropriately. Soon it was a subject of every public discussion. Apparently it is present in our 'unspoilt' society and maybe for much longer than we care to admit. But should we really be collectively stressed by homosexuality?

Malaria kills six children a day you know. So where are our priorities?

To put it in perspective, a football coach bedding a 23-year-old player of the same sex is not a story about how our society is coming to an end. It is a story of two consenting adults, period. The only way we can judge this relationship as wrong is for us to stand on some moral high ground and therefore expose ourselves to questions about our own morality. Before we all get carried away then let us remember that there is poor remuneration, poor management and under funding to contend with in football. So can we all please just calm down.

On a personal level though I think homosexuality is improper and I am neither homophobic nor a religious zealot. I just happen to believe that everything beneath and beyond the stars is purposefully designed by God and anyone who is familiar with the Human sexual anatomy (which is most of you) will appreciate that this preference between members of the same sex is a contradiction of the Creator's original intention.

However it is not up to me to decide what others should do. And neither should you, no matter how much you would rather have homosexuals dressed up in fluorescent bibs for easier identification and victimisation.

But just because I think we were all created with free will, does not mean it makes me comfortable when someone attempts to influence my children's choices.

If I must respect the right of people to bed whoever they fancy then they must respect my right to disagree with their orientation campaigns.

For all I care people can fancy goats, just don't recruit my children into it, because I just don't see this as a shining example of goodness. So if you don't mind allow me to educate my own children, thank you.

So for me the issue is not that gay people are invading our society or being discriminated against. It is that we should always guard against one man's freedom inconveniencing another's.

So when some homosexuals start recruiting in our schools and churches like they are an army marching on to war I have cause for concern. As a guardian of my children I am obliged to ensure that they don't take direction from a stranger in a fake suit and an accent to match, most especially if he/she is promising the good life in exchange for sexual orientation. Go ahead and call me a gay 'basher', but until my children are of age I shall remain responsible for the lifestyle choices they make - and those choices shall not include homosexuality, sorry.

Can we therefore close this matter? The homosexuality in our football clubs is a matter of choice between two consenting adults. What we should really worry about is this literature and money going around convincing our 12-year-olds on what moral choices to make.

Let everyone who doesn't fancy the influence of these perverts (gay or straight) stand up and say no!

Elsewhere in Africa

2009-07-13T10:54:00.003+03:00

Have to remind myself that it is not only Uganda.

Not a great thought for a very beautiful morning. And it is a very beautiful morning.

Yesterday, Sunday, it rained. Drizzled, actually. It has been a very dry spell for the last few months and the dust is everywhere. Dry, dusty, windy. And cold at night.

The drizzle dampened the air, removed much of the excess dust, and tied it down to earth. So the morning is realy fresh and lovely. Sun is as golden as ever. Yesterday we went out man watching. Strictly eye candy stuff.

Got across this story from Senegal. It is not nice, at all! But there, it happened. It seems to be significantly different from a similar one earlier in the year.

SHOCK AS GAY MAN IS EXHUMED FROM A “STRAIGHT ONLY” CEMETERY

Last Updated: July 7, 2009

By Jerina Chendze Messie (BTM French Reporter)

SENEGAL – 07 July 2009: The Senegalese gay community was shocked beyond words as the body of a gay man was exhumed from the local cemetery of Thiès, 70 km East of Dakar, dragged in the streets before being dropped in the courtyard of his family home by an angry mob who vowed that they will not have a gay man buried in their graveyard.

The corpse of Madièye Diallo, a gay man whose sexual orientation was well known in the area was, according to sources, exhumed for the second time by alleged homophobic community members who asked his family to bury him elsewhere.

Diallo’s friend who chose to remain anonymous said Diallo was an active member in the local branch of And Legeey, a lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex (LGBTI) organisation well known in the country and that he was in charge of organising events and meetings.

He added that the family does not want to say where they eventually buried Diallo for fear of more harassment.

The friend further explained that Diallo was an icon of gay people in Senegal after his photograph was largely disseminated by the media following an alleged gay marriage, which received huge media coverage.

Fearing for his life, he left the country and sought refuge in Mali.

He eventually came back, living between the two countries until he got sick and died.

“I spoke to his family and now they just want things to calm down before deciding what to do” the said.

Meanwhile four gay men have been arrested in Touba, 194 km East of Dakar, during the first week of June.

Just after their arrest, one of the most prominent religious leaders was heard on a local radio station saying that they [religious authorities] will do their own justice.

While no one knows the exact details of the men's arrests, a source known to Behind the Mask said people don’t want to get involved because they fear the power of religious leaders in that predominantly Muslim area.

And, this one is from Cameroon. Truly not only in Uganda

FREE EWANE! – GAY RIGHTS ACTIVISTS

Last Updated: July 3, 2009

By Jerina Chendze Messie (BTM French Reporter)

CAMEROON – 03 July 2009: A gay rights group in Cameroon is calling on the justice department to immediately drop charges against and release Yves Noe Ewane, arrested in May this year, allegedly for being gay.

Ewane was charged under sections 74 for criminal intention, 346 for gross indecency and 347 for homosexual conduct under the Cameroonian Penal Code, following a complaint filed against him by the mother of a supposed minor who accused Ewane of having sexual relations with his son.

Summoned to appear in court on 21 June the plaintiff and his mother did not pitch and the medical examination failed to prove that the boy was sodomised as alleged by his mother.

Alice Nkom, president of Association pour la Defense des Homosexuels (ADEFHO), an organisation that defends the rights of homosexuals in Cameroon, who is also representing Ewane says that the judge has everything he needs to close the drop the charges since “it appears that there is no witness or plaintiff.

In the absence of complainants, Ewane argued his innocence saying he had never had sexual relations with the boy.

Sebastien Mandeng, vice president of ADEFHO says Ewane is just a victim of stigmatisation since he was arrested last year for homosexual conduct and remanded in custody for six months at Douala New Bell Prison before being released.

“He has never been tried nor convicted and the case was dismissed for lack of evidence. He is a very sociable man who likes to entertain people at home but every time he is seen with somebody there are allegations of homosexuality. Just because he was accused once and although he was cleared, his neighbors still stigmatize him”, he said.

Ewane was sent to Douala New Bell Prison on the 19 May 2009 after being kept on police custody for three weeks at Douala Bonanjo Police Station. If found guilty, he will face a prison sentence of six months to five years and/or a fine of $50 to $500.

Out of your Sight

2009-07-11T22:09:00.000+03:00

Out of your sight
I fret and fritter
unsure, discomfited;
uncomfortable-

Do you love me?

Maybe you do, am I sure?

Uncertainty, sure companion to all lovers
stalks and follows me.

With you, the waters calm,
turbulence of spirit irons out;
all fear is removed.
The sight of you, your eyes, your gaze
the touch of you-
all that’s the miracle that
pulls me with love to you.

©gug 02 July 09

Masaka Case

2009-07-11T08:46:00.000+03:00

The facts. A 22 year old man had a group of students from whom he used to buy sex. He would pay them, and they would fork out services.

Sounds familiar?

Would, but for the fact that he was buying from guys. Boys, young men.

So, one breaks the silence, and outs the man. And the other boys. He writes a letter, of sorts. Gets to the parents, who storm the 22 year olds house, trying to lynch him. Police intervention, and he is arrested.

He doesn’t deny the allegation. (Poor man) He is taped on television, complaining that in fact the boys used to take his money and run, not deliver the requested services. A sort of confession.

His world has come apart.

And by the way, he is a poor man, because with the gay hysteria that has gripped the country, he is very liable to be sentenced to death. The charge on the statute books is ‘aggravated defilement’, and the punishment is death. Capital punishment. If he is lucky, life imprisonment, though I am not sure whether that option is given in the law.

Defilement is a common problem. Only when it occurs in respect to a boy is death the punishment on the law books. I think that is what happened in Mukono. A 17 year old was sentenced to life imprisonment, I believe it was in April of this year.

----

The unadorned facts stand out, clear. Maybe, and maybe not. They send a chill down my spine.
We are under siege. It is very easy to brush it aside, to go on and live as we have lived down the years. Was difficult before. The chances of being outed, or victimized, of being lynched are much higher. The tar brush has been thorough. We are Black. Tar Black.

The stories that I come across tend to be the ones which grab my attention. For example, the Masaka case is on the news on NTV, a local channel. Today’s evening news. And if I hadn’t had the chance to be at the tv at that particular moment, I wouldn’t have known anything about it. Too many stories, these days, about the evil of homosexuality, people arrested, accused, etc, etc. Only what catches my fancy makes it here. Or what makes it into the media, of course.

----

So, why do I blog such things?

Someone once abused me, that instead of writing about ‘developmental’ issues, I always write these disgusting stories. Different point of view, maybe. To me my sexuality is something to be celebrated. To most of my country mates, it is something to be hidden. A shame, not to be publicly aired.

I write because I think I am a human being, and no one will take that away from me.
Soon, if Nsaba-Buturo has his way, writing this blog from Uganda will be illegal. But of course I will continue writing. Because the mere stroke of a pen will not take away my life. Will take the hangman’s noose, or something as physical, don’t you think? And we Ugandans are very adept at ignoring extraneous laws. Comes with the territory.

Forget the misery above. Concentrate on some of the most important things which such news kind of masks.

I am alive. I am well. I eat and drink as necessary. At least for now. Some of my country mates to the east are dying of hunger. Fact.

And I am in love.

Funny thing is, love, being in love is maybe one of the strongest motivators. I am in love, and puny as that is, I will not have anyone think me less worth of my beloved’s attention. I will love and hide, as I must, but I will not hide from myself that I love. Life is too short, too sweet.

Yes, I am in love, and isn’t it beautiful!

gug

Homosexual students to be expelled from school

2009-07-10T21:42:00.000+03:00

First published: 20090709 8:23:40 AM EST

By Richards Wasswa, Ultimate Media

The District Education Officer of Kawempe Division, Haji Kibedi Nkutu has urged all parents in Uganda to spare some time and caution their own children on issues of homosexuality which of recent have become a big concern in Uganda.

Kebedi says that it has come to his understanding that there are some organized groups of people who are behind promoting acts of homosexuality in Ugandan and that their prime target are young people who are in school.

He says that these notorious groups are owned and dominated by foreigners who have a lot of money that they use to seduce young people to join acts homosexuality and lesbianism.

Kebedi says that he will not sit and wait to see the young who are the future of the nation get swallowed up by homosexuality and lesbianism, but will ensure whichever student identified as homo is chased out of school of school.

However, pro gay rights activities who say homosexuality is a natural occurrence and not taught to a person have in the recent past expressed concern that such indiscriminate deionization of homosexuals might force many gay students to abandon school or make many children to be suspended from school for being suspected to be gay.

Efforts to get the official position of the government on the matter were not successful by press time. Homosexuality is illegal according to Uganda's laws.

Ssempa Stories

2009-07-10T13:48:00.004+03:00

Have been watching the news on NTV. Guy was arrested in Masaka...

anyway, here are the Ssempa related stories. Guy is on a roll.

Muslims Join Pastors in Gay Fight

Al-Mahdi Ssenkabirwa10 July 2009

Kampala — Muslims have teamed up with their counterparts from the Pentecostal churches to fight homosexuality. The leader of the Muslim Tabliqs, Sheikh Sulaiman Kakeeto, said the issue of homosexuality affects all people regardless of their religious affiliations.

"We have decided to make a bond with our fellow religious leaders to fight homosexuality," Sheikh Kakeeto said at the launch of a campaign dubbed 'The National Coalition against Homosexuality and Sexual Abuses in Uganda' in Kampala on Wednesday. "We want to work together and eliminate sodomy and other forms of sexual abuses in our society."

The two groups signed an agreement to guide their operations. Sheikh Kakeeto and Sheikh Muhammad Badru, the chairman the National Da'awa Association, signed on behalf of Muslims while pastors Michael Kyazze (Omega Healing Centre), Martin Ssempa (Makerere Community Church) and Solomon Male (Arising for Christ) signed on behalf of born again Christians. Sheikh Kakeeto called on the government to strengthen the law on homosexuality and incarcerate those caught in the act.

Pastor Ssempa said the coalition intends to embark on a campaign to sensitise communities about "the dangers of homosexuality." "We shall offer counselling, legal and material support to the affected people," he said.

Homosexuality is illegal in Uganda.

and another…

Martin Ssempa attacks the Ugandan diaspora

THURSDAY, 09 JULY 2009 15:50 JOE POWELL

You could never accuse Pastor Ssempa of mincing his words. In a public debate on professionalising journalism on Tuesday (more of which later), Ssempa tore into Ugandans who have lived abroad for becoming “ideological sycophants”. He claimed they leave with one world-view and come back with another, having succumbed to “market forces of the soul” by taking scholarships at Western universities. Ssempa’s prime target was a change in moral attitude to issues like homosexuality, against which he has been leading a vocal campaign. He summed it up as follows: “Ugandans who go abroad are victims of Michael Jackson syndrome, they are born black but die white.”

So what does our readership in the diaspora think of this? Have you contracted the dreaded Michael Jackson syndrome?

Head On

2009-07-10T10:15:00.000+03:00

Someone tackles the anti-Gay hysteria in Uganda. Hadnt seen this article, but very much worth the time...

Is homosexuality really un-African?

Guest Writers

Written by Akumu Patience

Sunday, 05 July 2009 16:57

Uganda has of late become a hot bed of homosexuality debate with the majority of us agreeing that same sex relationships are a perversion, an abomination, unheard-of and unacceptable among Africans.

Almost all of us think it’s an act that must be condemned by all right thinking members of society in the most vehement of terms. Our dear President, political leaders and religious guardians have all added their strong voices. The result is a resounding reverberation: “There is no homosexuality in Africa”.

This rhetoric we have learnt to accept without question, faithfully rallying behind those who want our brothers and sisters involved in same sex love to leave the continent.

Yet same sex relationships were once embraced and accepted within several African societies, some of them were sexual while others were non sexual, and others still were symbolic. Perhaps the real western decadence is the grave homophobia that has now come to be part and parcel of African societies.

Joseph M. Carrier and Steven O. Murray, in a research entitled “Boy wives and female husbands” highlight the fact that same sex marriages have been documented in more than thirty African populations, like among the Yoruba and Ibo of West Africa, the Lovedu, Zulu and Sotho of South Africa, the Kikuyu and Nandi of East Africa, the Nuer and Zande of Sudan and the Hausa of Nigeria.

There is also evidence that homosexuality existed in pre-colonial Uganda but was largely closeted. However, the society then was not as homophobic as it is today. Bride price was central to these same sex relationships.

Typically one of the women in the woman-woman relationship would pay bride price and become the sociological husband. The woman for whom bride price was paid would be her wife. In a man-man relationship, the older man would pay bride price for his usually teenage ‘bride’ who would become his boy-wife.

The parents of the boy-wife would treat the older man as their son-in-law. Unlike woman-woman relationships that were usually permanent, man-boy relationships would end when the younger boy became of age and married his own boy-wife.

Like usually happens when any sort of social bonds are formed, same sex relationships in Africa were sometimes abused. Between 1880 - 1923, a study of homosexual crime among African males revealed that homosexuality began too early and was too widespread in nature to be dismissed as a result of European sexual decadence.

Even then, many of the men were prosecuted for being in relationships they themselves described as passionate. There were also cases of male elders and men in authority taking advantage of other men in vulnerable positions.

Like is the case with so many other aspects, in regard to homosexuality, Africa got the worst of both worlds. We let go of our culture of tolerance and embraced the so called “sodomy” and “unnatural” offences and put them in our statute books where they have stayed to date.

Criminalisation of same sex relationships makes it very hard to intervene in cases where there is abuse, for example where one of the parties is not consenting or when minors are involved.

Allegations like those against Pastor Kayanja become not just an ordinary case of one individual violating another’s body and sexual integrity but rather a crisis. The real issue gets drowned in other would be irrelevant ones. We are more concerned with integrity and morality issues therein.

Investigation gets geared more towards punishing such immorality or salvaging the reputation of the accused, instead of addressing the gross abuse of human rights involved and achieving rational and legal justice for the victims and alleged perpetrators.

What is ironical is that these laws, criminalising all forms of same sex relationships, we cling so tightly on and quote with utmost relish and gusto were long replaced in the statute books of the countries from which we imported them.

Culture, morality and religion are all dynamic, relative and subjective notions carrying different meanings to different people at different times and places. Seems like it’s high time we look for another reason to intervene in other people’s private lives besides claiming that they are “uncultured”, “immoral” and “un-African”.

Or maybe if we feel so strongly about it, we should be the ones to leave the African continent for some safe haven where we shall not be confronted by “immoral” and “uncultured” people.

The author is a Law student at Makerere University.

veroak2001@yahoo.com

Take war to the homosexuals

2009-07-09T13:44:00.001+03:00

A columnist using his popularity and power to gay bash. And effectively out does Ssempa.

It is an old article, but since its effects still are roiling through Ugandan football, I will post it here. Funny thing is that I can claim acquitance with the writer. And he does think, or believe that we must be friends! Wonder how long that would last revelation of my sexuality??????!!!!!

I must be 'charitable' and say that he is just parroting what is considered to be 'common sense'. But he does it to insult his intelligence. Read, and understand, how 'homosexuality' has 'destroyed' Uganda football. At least according to Aldrine Nsubuga, and a whole lot of Ugandan football fans and public.

Warning, you may be nauseated...

Take war to the homosexuals

Aldrine Nsubuga

LAST Sunday, I tickled listeners of Ekyoto ky’emizannyo on Dembe FM when I suggested to them that time has come for football to disown and banish players and officials with homosexual inclinations from our training fields, stadiums and football corridors permanently.

Caller after caller agreed and they added that it ought to be the fans duty to ensure the implementation of this new resolve. Congratulations to the new Kakungulu Cup champions SC Villa, who hadn’t won a title since 2004.Better late than never.

Research as to why SC Villa have struggled though reveals a heart-breaking account. Over the last five seasons Villa has heavily relied on players who have steadily progressed from their youth system but whether by design, coincidence or mere accident, a high-ranking club official turned these same youngsters into girlfriends and, in some cases, even wives.

Every star became not just a target but a kill for this official with animalistic instincts. At least 2 coaches with the same monstrous behavior were recruited by the club and the problem descended into an orgy.

One by one, star players started seeking more humane alternatives but the wholesome converts into the un-natural practice elected to stay and serve their husbands.

Riled, insulted and embarrassed, the more dignified Haji Omar Mandela and Tushar Rupareila opted to relinquish their active managerial roles in the club and focus on their businesses.

They deserve life-time achievement awards. Their poor and undignified counterparts insisted that the homosexual’s sick money, though soiled with refuse, was still more important to the club!!

Villa lost their better players and watched as their stars deteriorated by the day. Shockingly, one of the two allegedly homosexual coaches has risen through the ranks at FUFA and the other, we are told, was caught with his pants down during the inter-regional tournament in the north.

That FUFA has known this all along but still only stopped at threatening disciplinary action is perhaps the biggest problem.

Every club knows which players and officials are homosexual. FUFA should blacklist all these and ban them from football activity.

The accused should be the ones to prove their innocence not the other way around. Believe me a quick appointment with any doctor will easily help in either absolving or condemning them. We don’t need eye witness accounts.

No player or official known to practice this vice must be allowed anywhere near football. In fact, a full list of all these should be circulated in the sports media fraternity so that the public can gain insightful knowledge.

And FUFA? Can they ever do anything right? Stop the threats and act including against your own.

Published on: Saturday, 27th June, 2009

FUFA vs FIFA...2

2009-07-09T09:52:00.004+03:00

Thought the news had not got to FUFA. But maybe it did...

Anyway, in a story 'Gay activists want Uganda banned' the New Vision spreads that story further. Last night, the FUFA weekly press conference was in the news. What seemed to have been newsworth seemed more about the fight against homosexuality in the beautiful game. Didnt see the question asked, nor the answer, unless this excerpt below is the answer.

My countrymates are way out homophobic. Dont think FIFA will be able to make them back down, but interesting to see how it plays out, ultimately.

FUFA president Lawrence Mulindwa warned that they will not stop the drive against homo sexaulity. He called on the public to help in fighting the vice by volunteering information.

Mulindwa, who addressed the FUFA PostBank weekly press conference Mengo yesterday, said that his administration needed evidence to fight the habit infesting Ugandan soccer.

He denied allegations that he masterminded sodomy allegations against Ayieko for political and publicity reasons. “Why should I go for small fish (Ayieko)?” Mulindwa wondered.

Pastors loud on gays, silent on corruption

2009-07-08T13:31:00.001+03:00

TUESDAY, 07 JULY 2009 18:47 BY MUBATSI ASINJA HABATI

In November, 1999, President Museveni ordered the police to arrest homosexuals after it was alleged that two gay men had wedded in a Kampala suburb. Religious leaders welcomed the president’s directive, insisting that homosexuality is not only against the biblical teachings but it goes against African culture and the laws of nature. But gay activists hit back saying that this precedent would worsen discrimination against them as a community.

Homophobia is widespread in Africa as homosexuality is considered immoral, inhuman and unnatural in African culture. But many gays and their activists argue that homosexuality is a lifestyle that needs to be respected.

For the last few weeks, local media have carried stories of Pastor Robert Kayanja of Rubaga Miracle Centre accusing him of sodomising seven young men from his congregation. Among those accusing Kayanja of sodomy include Samson Mukisa, James Ntwatwa, Ronny Mutebi, David Mukalazi, Akansiime and Robinson Matovu. They all claim the incident happened while they served in his church. Police are investigating the matter.

Anti-gay activists claim that homosexuality is a dysfunctional lifestyle. They argue that that if it were so, then gays would not be actively recruiting people into it. Media have lately been reporting claims by anti gay activists that homosexuals are deliberately recruiting people to become gay, especially vulnerable members of society. But gays have since denied these claims.

There exists so much hate for homosexuality in Uganda and it is being crusaded mainly by religious leaders. For example many homosexuals operate secretly and even those sodomised fear to speak out because of social stigmatisation. So, on 9th June when the rest of Ugandans were celebrating the Heroes’ day, Pentecostal pastors united against sodomy. They say that victims of homosexuality who have decided to come out publicly to fight the vice by pinning their alleged abusers are the real heroes. Pastors Solomon Male, Martin Sempa and Michael Kyazze organized the parallel function. Ironically those accused of sodomy are said to be some of the leaders of the church flock.

Frank Mugisha, chairperson of Sexual Minorities in Uganda (SMUG), accuses the anti-gay pastors of contradicting the teachings of Christianity that call for embracing all people. He said the church is supposed to be a place of worship and welcoming to diversity. “The anti gay pastors have used a wrong platform to fight homosexuality. They are silently pushing away Christians who have been struggling with their sexual orientation, and making us question the teachings of the church.”

He argues that the pastors’ stance promotes hate towards homosexuals. He adds that is unfortunate to see people who call themselves men and women of God “abuse humanity by promoting homophobia, yet they know the dangers of their actions. I always say those who know will be asked more at judgment day. The pastors know these things, they know people are born gay, unless they have no faith and are here to uphold values we do not understand. But in true Christianity they should be embracing gay people who are a minority and vulnerable to larger society just like Christ did,” Mugisha told The Independent.

ACCUSED: Robert Kayanja

The pastors who are anti-gay say they are not fighting Kayanja as a person but the vice of homosexuality he is accused of promoting. They are now demanding for his resignation as leader of the Rubaga Miracle Centre to pave way for investigations.

“We are fighting homosexuality not Kayanja. Alex Mitala as head of the Pentecostal churches should ask him to temporarily step down as this is a universal standard done all over the world when such cases arise,” said Martin Sempa.

Following a few days of interrogation of the said sodomy victims, the police CID boss, Edward Ochom, announced in a press conference that Kayanja had no case to answer. The move surprised many. Instead, he turned tables on the five pastors and the seven alleged victims of homosexuality accusing them of framing Kayanja. Since then speculation of bribery and intimidation are rife. Pastor Kayanja enjoys a close relationship with State House. He is known for his charitable work in renovating police barracks. Sometime back Kayanja renovated the Old Kampala police station and recently offered to renovate the police CID headquarters in Kibuli. But his philanthropic offer to the police has come to scrutiny with some members of society opposing it arguing it might compromise the police in their investigations.

These pastors have since written to minister of Ethics and Integrity and the Inspector General of Police about their petition. They ask government to set up an independent commission of inquiry into sodomy allegations in the church claiming that the police have been compromised by Kayanja. “We are hurt that people who come out to speak against abuse of young people, children are instead harassed. Every right thinking member of society should stand up and condemn this vice,” notes Male.

President Museveni, through his press secretary, Tamale Mirundi, issued a stern warning regarding the way police was handling the investigations on the sodomy case involving Kayanja. He directed a separate inquiry into reports that some State House and other government officials are interfering with the investigations in favour of Kayanja. During the recently concluded Fire Conference organized by Kayanja, President Museveni, a close associate never attended. The savedees constitute a large support base for the NRM party when it comes to elections.

The five pastors are happy with the president’s directive but still insist on instituting an independent commission of inquiry into the matter since they doubt the competence of police to deliver thorough investigations. “Pentecostal leaders should not fear to come out loud and fight the evil spirit of homosexuality,” said Sempa, adding that, “you say you exorcise spirits but when it comes to homosexuality in church you are silent.” Some churches are sponsored by gay groups like the Other Sheep, a Christian gay organization.

It is hard to estimate the exact number of homosexuals in Uganda since they operate in secrecy partly because Ugandan laws criminalize it and strong society opposition to the practice. But Mugisha said some studies show that at least 3% of the adult Ugandans are homosexuals. The number is said to be rising and a few brave ones have come out in public to represent this community like in August 2007.

AGAINST: Martin Sempa.

But analysts question the basis of pointing accusing fingers on one sin in society and remain silent about others such as corruption, robbery, murder, envy, fornication, issues of governance and democracy, rigging of elections, dictatorship, torture in safe houses, and extra judicial killings yet these are also salient matters affecting society today.

They are wondering why the anti-gay activists especially the pastors have not come out to speak strongly against these vices especially corruption. In fact, it is emerging that some parents, who catch their children being molested by gays, opt for money from the offender instead of reporting the matter to police. But Pr Male argues that one first cleans their house before telling how dirty their neighbour’s house is.

“Sanity and sanctity in the church is important first. Politicians will ask us where you get the moral authority to speak against corruption when the church itself is filled with filth,” Male told The Independent.

There is an ongoing debate that people are born gay and so it is their sexual orientation. This is a view held by many gays. Some people argue one is born gay and link this to the scientific theory of evolution and claim that is why the vice has not been wiped out. “People are born gay,” says Mugisha, but adds there is a difference in their sexual orientation. Some are gays (males who are attracted to males), lesbians (females attracted to females), bisexuals (people who have sexual feelings for people of their own sex or opposite sex), and transgender (for example if a person is born male but inside he feels like a woman). Transgender people are not necessarily homosexuals.

Although it is not definitely known how and why people become gay, various reasons attempt to explain this. Mugisha stated that there is a genetic factor in homosexuality in addition to the environment and one’s upbringing.

“We know that homosexuality occurs through all the cultures of man. It also occurs amongst other animals and birds. We do not know why it occurs but we know that homosexuality is part of humanity,” he admits. Mugisha says also there are people who involve in same sexual acts as a source of income just like heterosexuals; “commercial sex workers”.

Dr Joseph Haumba, a lecturer at Makerere University’s Department of Biochemistry, told The Independent that the debate that there exist gay genes poses a challenge because of differing views. He says it hard to say that gene exists. But notes that the evolution theory would support existence of gay genes as it posits that things go on advancing so gay relationships would be taken as a high level of human evolution. However, Dr Haumba contends that “if we start interpreting everything genetically we would have problems. We would get a situation where thieves and drug addicts claiming they have narcotic or theft genes meaning that we would be disarmed in fighting the vices.” He goes on to say: “We have never seen children born to gay couples. They adopt implying their relationship is not viable for bearing unless they procreate. They orient those children into homosexuality yet genes are passed on by parents to off-springs.”

The opposition and contradictions to understand homosexuality are not new. In 1800s, psychiatrists treated homosexuality as a mental disorder. But by 1960s their opinions were divided. In 1973, the American Association of psychiatrists and psychologists removed homosexuality from the Diagnostic Statistical Manual 4 (DSM4) arguing that there was evidence that it was not a disease as the medicine never worked.

Homosexuality is said to be widely spreading in the country and rumours of deliberate recruitment are rampant. Schools, prisons and even in churches are the most targeted. “We need to fight it,” says Sempa, an anti-gay activist.

“If the homosexuals could restrict their practice to consenting adults, then maybe society would not be so angry,” said one commentator adding that “because that is not as bad as pouncing on young innocent fellows and destroying their lives.”

In places like hotels, bars and nightclubs, gays will be found curdling freely.

“Where shall we turn given that our children are now at the focus of gays?” Charles Ssemakula, a parent working with Centenary Bank, lamented. Homosexuality is a criminal offence in Uganda and is punishable by life imprisonment. The offenders may be charged under unnatural offences in section 140 of the penal code.

George Oundo, who claims to have been a homosexual and now turned an anti-gay activist, alleges gay activities are funded by the same donors funding the government. This was corroborated by Mugisha. He told The Independent that. “Our projects are funded by the very donors who fund, all other humanitarian, health, government institutes and civil society organizations in Uganda.”

He claims he was recruited into homosexuality at the age of 12 and recently abandoned the vice when he was 27 because he wants people not to go through the pain he experienced.

Mugisha says the state “sponsored” homophobia is not going to change homosexuals. “However, it is making us vulnerable to society and increases hate crimes towards vulnerable minorities, as well as limiting resources and programs to HIV/AIDS intervention and protection therefore making us the most at most risky to HIV/AIDS”.

Congratulations, India

2009-07-05T08:30:00.000+03:00

Yes, they are due this. A belated congratulations

We share the same colonial past, so, until Nsaba Buturo changes the law against us to make it more 'biting' of us, we share the same law, the one that has been striken down in the Indian state of Delhi. Oh, sorry, the penalty in Uganda was strengthened since colonial times.

Congratulations, on having had this done, Gay Indians. Still a long way to go. But you are on the road to self realisation. Your Stonewall indeed. Congratulations.

Gay sex decriminalised in India

A court in the Indian capital, Delhi, has ruled that homosexual intercourse between consenting adults is not a criminal act.

The ruling overturns a 148-year-old colonial law which describes a same-sex relationship as an "unnatural offence".

Homosexual acts were punishable by a 10-year prison sentence.

Many people in India regard same-sex relationships as illegitimate. Rights groups have long argued that the law contravened human rights.

The court said that a statute in Section 377 of the Indian Penal Code, which defines homosexual acts as "carnal intercourse against the order of nature" and made them illegal, was an "antithesis of the right to equality".

'India's Stonewall'

The ruling is historic in a country where homosexuals face discrimination and persecution on a daily basis but it is likely to be challenged, says the BBC's Soutik Biswas in Delhi.

It also promises to change the discourse on sexuality in a largely conservative country, where even talking about sex is largely taboo, our correspondent says.

Gay rights activists all over the country welcomed the ruling and said it was "India's Stonewall".

New York's Stonewall riot in 1969 is credited with launching the gay rights movement.

"It [the ruling] is India's Stonewall. We are elated. I think what now happens is that a lot of our fundamental rights and civic rights which were denied to us can now be reclaimed by us," activist and lawyer Aditya Bandopadhyay told the BBC.

"It is a fabulously written judgement, and it restores our faith in the judiciary," he said.

Leading gay rights activist and the editor of India's first gay magazine Ashok Row Kavi welcomed the judgement but said the stigma against homosexuals will persist.

"The social stigma will remain. It is [still] a long struggle. But the ruling will help in HIV prevention. Gay men can now visit doctors and talk about their problems. It will help in preventing harassment at police stations," Mr Kavi told the BBC.

But the decision was greeted with unease by other groups.

Father Dominic Emanuel of India's Catholic Bishop Council said the church did not "approve" of homosexual behaviour.

"Our stand has always been very clear. The church has no serious objection to decriminalising homosexuality between consenting adults, the church has never considered homosexuals as criminals," said Father Emanuel.

"But the church does not approve of this behaviour. It doesn't consider it natural, ethical, or moral," he said.

The head cleric of Jama Masjid, India's largest mosque, criticised the ruling.

"This is absolutely wrong. We will not accept any such law," Ahmed Bukhari told the AFP news agency.

In 2004, the Indian government opposed a legal petition that sought to legalise homosexuality - a petition the high court in Delhi dismissed.

But rights groups and the Indian government's HIV/Aids control body have demanded that homosexuality be legalised.

The National Aids Control Organisation (Naco) has said that infected people were being driven underground and efforts to curb the virus were being hampered.

According to one estimate, more than 8% of homosexual men in India were infected with HIV, compared to fewer than 1% in the general population.

Reflections

2009-07-04T19:50:00.000+03:00

I am a private person.

Except on the blog, where I come and air all my thoughts to irritate people!

Well, I am a private person, with regards to my sexuality. Comes with the territory, I am gay in a country that is homophobic. I am very used to not talking about my sexuality. It is something that (I hope), only a select few know about. And I discuss it with a measured minority.

You can imagine my discomfort at the level of exposure that Ssempa and Co has given us this last few months.

On the radios, homosexuality, sodomy is always on the fm stations. In the news, the more sensational arrests. In the talk shows, people vie with each other to tell the most sensational ‘truths’. I have just had a peep at a Saturday teenagers show on WBS television. Ssempa is the chief guest. Homosexuality is the topic. Talk about an obsession.

It is fantastic how quickly the general public kind of grows weary of a topic. For Ssempa and co, it is a crusade. An obsession. So they are going on and on and on. We kuchus have shut them out. We have to hide better, select lovers more circumspectly, but otherwise, life goes on.

Of course we hope that what happens does not come home to us. There are many who are very willing to jump on the bandwagon and abuse us. And our community is saturated with awareness of our sexuality. But they are blind. They just do not see us. A ‘homo’, the kind that Ssempa and Co talk about, has horns, a tail wrapped behind dark black, light-eating robes, wicked eyes and eye teeth, ready to bite and suck blood and ‘recruit’.

That serves us very well. We are too human to approximate to the stereotypes.

But it kind of hurts, the things which people say about us. Recently I was chatting to a mother about her kid, and she detailed how she was ‘sodomy proofing’ him. I listened, and felt sad.

I wouldn’t like her child to fall prey to a paedophile, but the fact that I am gay… It was kind of weird to hear of what should have been done so that I never become homosexual!

Sad, true.

But this is a funny country. Beautiful, wonderful in its own right.

Kind of have to look at it from the point of view that the beauty is counterbalanced by ugliness. Though I would the beauty would stand out on its own.

I have been thinking of love, and the privilege of love.

I don’t believe in abstinence. Not at all. Seems stupid to restrict one’s happiness, and enjoyment on the basis of some future blessings. Being gay in Uganda kind of emphasizes that. I mean, it is such a fragile happiness to find a man that you love and be able to share life with him. The fears and dangers are very real. And the bubble of happiness is fragile. True, I can choose to deny myself. Many do.

But why should I?

Ok, you guessed it. I am in love.

And aint it just the bomb!

Food for Thought

2009-07-04T13:15:00.003+03:00

Going through some old mail of mine, I came across this article.

Eliminating homosexuality: Nazi Germany and Modern Uganda

It is interesting, and disturbing. Its is old, in this age of internet publishing. But it is kind thought provoking. The "State of Homo-hate" that Ssempa and Buturo and Co. have managed to engineer these days in Uganda is disturbing. To us homosexuals of course. To others it may appear like it is nothing, just those homos getting their just deserts.

This is a disturbing historical parallel. Worth a read, and of course worth posting here!

gug

Update on the Mbale Case

2009-07-03T18:57:00.003+03:00

Remember the guys who were followed home after they were thought to be gay?

Well, here is an update on what has been happening to them, all these days. Imagine this saga just because you have been suspected to be gay! It is not very nice.

30th June. 2009
Uganda LGBTI Cases:
Mbale report

Mbale is a district in the Eastern part of Uganda. On 5th April, 2009.Fred Wasukira aka Nabooza Margate - Transgender man and Brian Mpadde, both residents of Mbale district , were arrested, at the residence of Fred Wasukira by the local councils and the police of Namakwekwe village in Mbale district Uganda. The two were arrested for being suspected to be homosexuals. The two were taken to, police station, where they stayed for one night, thereafter transferring them to Mbale police station. After 11 days and nights locked up in the cells of Mbale police station they were taken to court on the 17th of April, they appeared before grade1 magistrate, Stella Apinyu, and were charged with carnal knowledge against the order of nature. An offense which carries a jail sentence of life imprisonment if convicted. The two pleaded not guilty to this offense. Case was referred to the chief magistrate for hearing, and the two were remanded at Maluke prison in Mbale, until the 21st April , 2009.

They appeared in court on the 21st April, 2009 , case was mentioned and their remand was extended to 4th May 2009. On 4th May, 2009, chief magistrate agreed to grant the two court bail, however the two did not have substantial securities, the remand was extended to 20th May, 2009.On 20th May,2009. Sexual Minorities Uganda – SMUG, organized legal aid and court bail for the two, however it was difficult to process substantial documents for Brian Mpadde because his family was uncooperative, who have also disowned their son. SMUG was able to process court bail for Fred Wasukira.

Brian’s remand was extended to 4th June, 2009. On 4th June,2009, the chief magistrate was not in court, case was mentioned and the two were told to reappear in court on 10th June, 2009. On 10th and 11th June, 2009, Brian was denied court bail the chief magistrate was not satisfied with the securities, the remand was extended to 16th June 2009.On 16th June, 200 9. SMUG successfully, arranged for the court bail of Brian Mpadde and he was granted court bail. At court on 16th, the police surgeon brought a medical report according to the examination he had carried out on the two while in police custody. He claimed he had been asked to carry out the medical examination on the bodies of Brian and Fred to find out whether they had scars. His report concluded that they had pierced ear lobes, they had a sexually transmitted disease -gonorrhea, and were mentally stable, HIV negative and that he recommends them for treatment.

Brian and Fred will report back to court on the 29th July, 2009, for court hearing. SMUG is monitoring the two, as they receive psycho – social support. SMUG has been following up this case; find attached a full narrative case study. The two men’s rights were violated: invasion of privacy, being detained in Police custody over the maximum period of time of 48hours as stipulated in the constitution of the Republic of Uganda. Subjected to torture, degrade and in human ill treatment while in police and prison custody on suspect of being homosexuals. SMUG has reported these violations to the Uganda Human Rights commission and we await the follow up. Thank you so much for all the support

ChairpersonSexual Minorities Uganda - SMUG

FUFA vs FIFA

2009-07-02T21:14:00.002+03:00

Broadly speaking, in official ‘Uganda’ as shown by Minister Nsaba-Buturo, and Ssempa, the law and rights enshrined in the constitution do not apply to gay Ugandans.
Because they are gay, their rights should be denied. No right to assembly, to advocacy, to presenting their point of view. In a country where the stigma is very much tilted against any gay person who speaks out and embraces his or her sexual orientation, the good minister wants it criminalized to speak out. Because when we speak out, we are promoting the gay agenda. We are doing sin.
But this ‘official’ Uganda forgets that it is a nation in a global village.
FUFA, the Ugandan football association, suspends a coach because of allegations that he made a pass, ‘allegations of sodomy’. And they go ahead and put in place a ‘code of conduct’ to effectively ban homosexuals from the beautiful game.
Why?
A ‘good’ Ugandan will exclaim indignantly, ‘we don’t want homosexuals in our game.’
But FUFA is part of FIFA. And that international body has taken a specific stand against discrimination. Racial discrimination, but also on sexual orientation.
Thanks to anon below for pointing this one out to me.
So, what will FUFA do?
Are they, (god help us) going to soil the beautiful game by including homosexual Ugandans? god forbid! Here is the article. Is going to be fun to know FUFA’s response.

FIFA demand explanation over FUFA anti-gay letter, sanctions could follow
Thursday, 02 July 2009 15:15 Joe Powell

Uganda Talks can exclusively reveal that the governing body of world football, FIFA, has written to the Uganda Football Federation (FUFA) demanding an explanation “regarding recent media reports of an apparent FUFA campaign against homosexual related acts”. Article 6 of the FIFA Code of Ethics bans discrimination of all kinds. Rogers Mulindwa, a FUFA spokesman, recently said of the subject: "We totally condemn it. We want evidence to pin the people involved – it’s here that we will start the clean up." The state minister for sport, Charles Bakabulindi, confirmed that any player, official or coach involved in sodomy would be banned from the sport.

The row has the potential to become world news if FIFA threaten Uganda with sanctions. These could involve a fine, being forced to play international matches behind closed doors or even suspension from the world game. On June 28 The Scotsman newspaper reported that Cranes coach Bobby Williamson “could lose his job…unless he signs a form condemning gays.” Williamson himself is quoted as saying: “There has been a lot of talk about homosexuality in the game in Uganda and I’ve heard stories, although I have no evidence of it. What I do know is that politicians and football officials seem strongly against it. What I will say is that you have to abide by the law of the land in whatever country you happen to be working in.”

The New Vision reported today that FUFA have indefinitely banned Charles ‘Mbuzi’ Ayieko from coaching over "sodomy allegations".

UPDATE

Picked this from an incredulous Scottish paper. The shenigans concerning homosexuality in Uganda must be pickling some people funny!

African edict could leave some feeling sick as a parrot
By Derek Lord

Published: 03/07/2009

THE expression “It’s a funny old game” has just taken on a somewhat different meaning for former Kilmarnock and Hibernian football manager Bobby Williamson, who is currently coaching the Ugandan national squad.

Fufa, the ruling body of Ugandan football, has announced that all football managers in the country must sign a code of conduct as part of a crackdown on homosexuality in the beautiful game.

This has left poor Bobby with a bit of a quandary. If he signs on the dotted line, he will be falling foul of Fifa’s anti-discrimination laws. Fifa was quick to challenge the stance taken by the Ugandan authorities, claiming that the Africans had broken the international code of conduct that bans any form of discrimination but, since homosexuality is still outlawed in Uganda, it is unlikely that the Ugandans will pay much attention to the demands of their more politically-correct European brothers.

I seem to remember some of Africa’s Church leaders causing a similar sort of stooshie over the ordination of homosexual clergy in this part of the world, so it’s hardly surprising that their opposite numbers in the world of football should display these homophobic tendencies.

Their anti-gay stance could cost them dearly, as Fifa has the power to make them play their games behind closed doors or even ban them from any involvement in international football if they go ahead with their petition.

Williamson says he hasn’t been asked to sign anything so far, but he seems to be hedging his bets. He has pointed out that people living and working in a country must respect that country’s laws. If and when he returns to the Scottish football scene, he might find that this argument won’t save him from a Fifa red card.

It seems that the whole thing kicked off when a Ugandan player accused a coach of getting up close and personal in the changing rooms after a game.

Mind you, when you see the carry on when players in any part of the world score a goal, it’s perhaps understandable that the Ugandan authorities are a wee bit suspicious. All that kissing, hugging and jumping on each other’s backs is bound to set off alarm bells in the minds of men who have been conditioned to look for signs of homosexuality in any given situation.

It must pose a bit of a problem for football pundits on Ugandan television when commenting on the prowess of a player. Any reference to a footballer being light on his feet could see the poor guy locked up for the rest of the season and beyond.

Football Purge

2009-07-02T20:57:00.000+03:00

FUFA bans Ayieko over sodomy claims

Wednesday, 1st July, 2009

Ayieko

By Swalley Kenyi

FUFA has slapped an indefinite suspension on tactician Charles ‘Mbuzi’ Ayieko over sodomy allegations.

The suspension comes at a time Police in Lira is investigating the Horizon FC coach on allegations he attempted to sodomise brothers Isaac Omara and David Doii two weeks ago.

Ayieko denied the accusations in Lira.

FUFA coaches commission secretary Stone Kyambadde announced the clampdown on Ayieko at the weekly PostBank FUFA press conference at Mengo yesterday.

The move means Ayieko, who was said to be joining Super League side Iganga TC will not proceed with negotiations with the club.

“I was in Lira. I saw what happened and as a way of protecting our profession, we thought it right to suspend him pending investigations,” Kyambadde said.

FUFA publicist Rogers Mulindwa added that they had requested Police to transfer the case to Kampala to allow a close follow up.

He warned that the decision against Ayieko was the beginning of tougher measures FUFA will take to rid football of allegations of homosexuality. But he contends that it was going to be a huge task to achieve because of lack of concrete evidence.

FUFA last week vowed to tackle the homosexual bug by placing tough conditions for coaches.

The coaches’ commission will kick off the campaign effective next season, with its members signing a code of conduct which will have an article that denounces any support or involvement in sodomy-related acts.

Uganda to fight donor pressure on gay rights: minister

2009-07-02T10:19:00.001+03:00

4 hours ago

KAMPALA (AFP) — Uganda will resist pressures from donor countries to soften its stance on homosexuality and plans to pass a new law that significantly clamps down on gay rights, a minister said Wednesday.

"I have been receiving a number of friends from outside Uganda telling me that we should go slow on the rights of people who promote anal sex," Ethics Minister James Nsaba Buturo said.

"And I'm telling them, 'well, if you in your countries you've chosen to promote anal sex that is your business but leave us alone."

He said that donors have threatened to withhold financial support if Uganda does not alter its position.

The minister added that the government was finalising a draft law aimed at curbing the promotion of gay rights to be tabled in parliament.

Referring to a recent press conference by gay rights campaigners, Buturo said: "That will soon be impossible for them to do... It will impossible for them to issue literature that is aimed at mobilising support."

Buturo has in the past said homosexual sex threatens Ugandan civilization because it does not produce children and accused the United Nations of a secret plot to spread homosexuality.

He has also called for the banning of miniskirts because they can cause road accidents by distracting male drivers.

Minister Buturo was missing out on the headlines

Government will not yield to homosexual pressure - Buturo

ISMAIL MUSA LADU

Kampala

The government has issued a stern warning to homosexuals and their sympathisers, saying it will not accept practice of unnatural sex even if it means losing out on the much needed donor support.

The Minister of Ethics and Integrity, Dr Nsaba Buturo, told journalists at the Uganda Media Centre yesterday that they are ready to forfeit any amount of donor funding that is tagged as a condition to accept homosexuality.

“I have been pressured by some donors to allow homosexuality, but I have told them they can keep their money and the homosexuality because it is not about charity at the expense of our moral destruction,” Mr Buturo said.

Mr Buturo said the homosexual forces are very powerful and operating through powerful governments to have their desire fulfilled but Uganda will not succumb to any pressure to legalise unnatural sex and homosexuality in particular.

According to Mr Buturo, the country is besieged with sodomy, pornography, prostitution, drug abuse, witchcraft and indirect embezzlement, something that makes Uganda lose its heart and identity.

“Nowadays, our country is welcoming and embracing all manners of social evil that are likely to render our society insecure and unproductive. We must do something,” Mr Buturo worriedly said.

He said the government is considering stringent measures with a view to close down makeshift video halls commonly known as “bibanda” and cinemas that he said perpetuate unacceptable behaviour like homosexuality and pornography.

Mr Buturo said whistle blowing, pornography, homosexuality and money laundering bills are all in the offing and will boost the country’s effort to rid the immoral and debilitating excesses that he said is eating the country.

He dismissed the idea that special places be designed for prostitutes to ply their trade saying it does not dignify the trade. He also said all government departments are corrupt save for a few that just show only a semblance of integrity.

And the same from New Vision

Anti-gay Bill to be tabled soon

By Joyce Namutebi

A stringent Bill against homosexuality is in the offing, the state minister for ethics and integrity, Dr. James Nsaba Buturo, has said.

Addressing a press conference at the Media Centre yesterday, Buturo said the country was besieged by homosexuality, pornography, prostitution, human sacrifice, drug abuse, embezzlement and witchcraft to the extent that it was “dangerously becoming a permissive society.”

He noted that once the Bill is passed into law, it will be an offence to publish and distribute literature on homosexuality or advocate for it.

He also stated that it would become impossible for homosexuals to address press conferences and attract people to their cause, once the Bill becomes law.

He, however, declined to reveal the penalties for offenders.

Buturo said he was under pressure from some development partners “to go slow on homosexuals”.

He disclosed that some donors were threatening to withdraw funding if Uganda becomes more hostile to homosexuals.

“I all the time tell them to leave us alone. I say (to them) that Uganda’s integrity is more than the money they give us. We are not going to be taken advantage of on account of financial support,” Buturo stated.

After all, he remarked, 70% of the aid that Uganda gets is repatriated.

The minister dismissed the notion that people are born homosexual.

“Ugandans who are choosing to promote illegality should not abuse the rights of the majority,” he warned.

Buturo urged religious institutions to fight immorality, arguing that they are “supremely mandated to address matters of the soul.”

He disclosed that he was looking after 60 former homosexuals, saying they are under threat from their former colleagues. He, however, did not name the place where they are being kept.

The minister stressed that the Government would not create special places for prostitutes to do their trade.

Uganda gay purge puts football coach on spot

2009-07-02T10:13:00.001+03:00

Published Date: 28 June 2009

By Ewing Grahame

A SCOTTISH football manager could lose his job leading an African football team unless he signs a form condemning gays.

Bobby Williamson, the former Rangers and West Bromwich star who is now head coach of the Ugandan national squad, has been asked to take part in an anti-sodomy offensive in the country, where homosexuality is illegal.

y other football coach in the country, must sign a code of conduct which "denounces any support or involvement in sodomy related acts".

The game's ruling body acted after Isaac Omalla, a player with Horizon FC, reported his manager, Charles Ayeko, to the police, claiming to have been sexually assaulted by the older man following a match during the inter-regional championships in Lira.

Ugandan newspapers have alleged there is a homosexual culture among some players.

Williamson's employers, the Ugandan FA (FUFA), have now launched a campaign against homosexuality, insisting that all coaches take part. "We are going to address (sodomy] in the code of conduct," said Stone Kyambadde, the vice-chairman of the Ugandan Coaches Association.

"The code will denounce any support or involvement in sodomy-related acts."

He was backed up by FUFA spokesman, Rogers Mulindwa. "We totally condemn it," he said. "We want evidence to pin the people involved. It's here that we will start the clean-up."

Williamson, who has managed Kilmarnock, Hibernian, Plymouth Argyle and Chester City, replaced Hearts manager Csaba Laszlo in the Ugandan post last year. He was back in Scotland last week to see his daughter graduate from Glasgow University.

FUFA's document represents something of a moral dilemma for the 47-year-old Scot, who has spoken out against discrimination during his managerial career. He is popular in Kampala, leading The Cranes to victory in the Cecafa Senior Challenge Cup in January, their first such success for six years.

"Sodomy is a criminal offence over there but this is the first I've heard of any code of conduct," he said. "Until FUFA speak to me about that it's a hypothetical matter and I'll reserve my views until I'm approached.

"What I will say is that you have to abide by the law of the land in whichever country you happen to be working in.

"There has been a lot of talk about homosexuality in the game in Uganda and I've heard stories, but I'm not aware of any evidence of it. What I do know is that most politicians and football officials seem to be strongly against it."

However, FUFA's actions are unlikely to win the approval of FIFA, the sport's ultimate governing body. While no one at their Zurich headquarters was available for comment, their policy is one of inclusion.

The Ugandan football authorities have acted even though the country could be expelled from FIFA if it attempts to enforce the policy.

Back

2009-07-01T22:09:00.001+03:00

Uhhhhhhh!

The new beginning was three days ago, wasn’t it?

And then I had to have a gap. Some reasons, why I was away, that is.

Its kind of stressful, this ‘fight’ for gay rights. One has to write because one cares. And if you care, then the various twists and turns kind of take it out on you. I may not be the one being arrested, or accused, or denounced, directly, but all these things matter. And day in, day out, the toll is considerable.

Sometimes, for a while I didn’t consider it. But I am only human. Consider that toll I have to, and must. And then I have to draw back and rest and wonder.

Thanks people, for pulling for me, for us. We cant do it without you. As Obama said of Iran, you watching and keeping note is important.

I have gone through the comments to the RRR post. Well, interesting. Anon, you can sign your name here. You don’t have to remain anonymous. You know, you can put a name to your hate and ignorance. (Or wisdom and flair, as you may call it.) It is okay with me. And of course, you have a perfect right to abuse me on my blog, or not to come and look at it.

Ha, the witch-hunt…

Still ongoing, though the turn it has taken is kind of interesting.

More and more pastors are being ‘accused’ by the major anti-gay pastors. The crusade by Messrs Ssempa. Latest I think was a Pastor Leslie. Don’t know much about the guy, except that he has another ‘mega church’ on Entebbe Road. Don’t know where that has gone…

The football association has suspended one coach or referee(?) on allegations of homosexuality. Seems as if football has taken that seriously.

And there are various news of doings in the homosexual community, you know, the kind of allegations and counter allegations which make life more and more interesting.

And what is happening in the kuchu community?

News of homosexuality is no longer news. I mean, with the pastors fighting, it is so much less newsworth to label just another John Doe, or Mukasa as a ‘homosexual’. Of course, the problem may be that the public is credulous about the ulteriour motivation behind the witchhunt. They are, cant help being so!

The kuchu community continues doing what it does. Cant say that I am missing sex. Fact. It is more hidden, and less likely to make a pass to a stranger on Kampala Road, or at say, ‘High Table’, but, with the correct play of the eyes, one can work out who and who is or is not safe!

Oh, by the way, today, Wed 1^st July, the news is that Homosexuals are to be stripped of their Human Rights. That is according to the Minister of State for Ethics and Integrity.

It is going to be in the news tomorrow, and I will see whether I can post something here.

Means that ‘normalcy’ is still reigning supreme in the Pearl of Africa.

gug

RRR

2009-06-27T17:37:00.001+03:00

Hi all,

Needed some time off. That is what happened, so I went kind of absent...

But I am around. And, hopefully, back now.

gug

'Gay penguins' rear adopted chick

2009-06-04T15:33:00.000+03:00

Two "gay" male penguins have hatched a chick and are now rearing it as its adoptive parents, says a German zoo.

The zoo, in Bremerhaven, northern Germany, says the adult males - Z and Vielpunkt - were given an egg which was rejected by its biological parents.

It says the couple are now happily rearing the chick, said to have reached four weeks old.

The zoo made headlines in 2005 over plans to "test" the sexual orientation of penguins with homosexual traits.

Three pairs of male penguins had been seen attempting to mate with each other and trying to hatch offspring from stones.

Since the chick arrived, they have been behaving just as you would expect a heterosexual couple to do

The zoo flew in four females in a bid to get the endangered birds to reproduce - but quickly abandoned the scheme after causing outrage among gay rights activists, who accused it of interfering in the animals' behaviour.

The six "gay" penguins remain at the zoo, among them Z and Vielpunkt who are now rearing the chick together after being given the rejected egg.

"Z and Vielpunkt, both males, gladly accepted their 'Easter gift' and got straight down to raising it," said a zoo statement.

"Since the chick arrived, they have been behaving just as you would expect a heterosexual couple to do. The two happy fathers spend their days attentively protecting, caring for and feeding their adopted offspring."

Humboldt penguins are normally found in coastal Peru and Chile, but their numbers have been dwindling due to overfishing, reports the AFP news agency.

'Drive to mate'

There have been previous reports of exclusive male-to-male pairings among penguins, some of which have also included the rearing of chicks.

Homosexual behaviour is well documented in many different animals, but it is not understood in detail, says Professor Stuart West, an evolutionary biologist at the University of Oxford.

Professor West says it has been suggested that homosexual activity could serve various purposes - for instance, it may relate to social bonding and establishment of dominance among bonobo chimps, while in some bird species, females may come together to rear young.

Other animals may simply exhibit a "drive to mate", while others may, like humans, enjoy non-procreative sexual activity.

"Homosexuality is nothing unusual among animals," Bremerhaven zoo said on Wednesday.

"Sex and coupling up in our world do not necessarily have anything to do with reproduction."