Parliament Speaker Edward Ssekandi has told critics of the anti-homosexuality bill that it won't be withdrawn.
Proposed in October, 2009, the measure would broaden the criminalization of homosexuality and introduce the death penalty for those who have previous convictions, are HIV positive or engage in homosexual sex with people younger than 18. Gay sex already is illegal in Uganda.
Ssekandi suggested those opposed to the bill present views to the parliamentary legal affairs committee.
"We shall consider your views, but we cannot withdraw the bill," Ssekandi said Monday. "It has to follow proper procedures."
Ssekandi was responding to a petition presented to Parliament by a group that described itself as AIDS service providers, spiritual mentors and counselors.*
*Originally Published: www.nydailynews.com Tuesday, March 2nd 2010, 1:15 PM
