Dr. Abed Bwanika, a prominent figure in Masaka City’s Kimaanya Kabonera Division, has submitted a petition to the National Unity Platform (NUP) leadership, calling for a clear and definitive stance on LGBT+Q issues. The petition, delivered to John Baptist Nambeshe, Deputy President of NUP’s Eastern Region, addresses concerns regarding the party’s perceived ambiguity concerning LGBT+Q rights.
In his petition, Dr. Bwanika highlights the urgency of the matter, citing widespread public apprehension surrounding NUP’s alleged support for homosexuality. He points to specific incidents, including statements made by NUP President Robert Kyagulanyi, popularly known as Bobi Wine, during interviews on international media platforms.
A key moment of controversy arose from Kyagulanyi’s interview with the British Broadcasting Corporation in December 2023, where he appeared to advocate for LGBT+Q rights despite Uganda’s stringent laws against homosexuality. Dr. Bwanika quoted Kyagulanyi’s statement from the interview, affirming belief in human rights for all Ugandans.
Dr. Bwanika also raises suspicions regarding Kyagulanyi’s purported connections with international LGBT+Q activists and sponsors, such as Rev. Jesse Jackson and US Secretary for Transport Pete Buttigieg. He points to instances where Kyagulanyi’s attire seemed to align with LGBT+Q fashion trends, raising questions within the party.
Expressing concerns about potential financial support from LGBT+Q organizations influencing NUP’s leadership decisions, Dr. Bwanika suggests it might have played a role in the removal of former Leader of the Opposition, Mathias Mpuuga, due to his differing stance on LGBT+Q issues.
Calling for immediate clarification, Dr. Bwanika urges a meeting of a legitimate organ within NUP to elucidate the party’s position on LGBT+Q rights. He stresses the importance of transparency in addressing concerns among Ugandans, particularly parents worried about the influence of such issues on their children within the party.
The petition has been copied to key figures within NUP leadership, including Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, the party president, and Joel Bisekezi Senyonyi, the Leader of the Opposition and the Party Spokesperson, among others.
In a 2023 interview with the BBC, Kyagulanyi argued against Uganda’s Anti-Homosexuality Act, which received overwhelming support from parliament. However, he faced criticism for his past anti-gay lyrics and was previously banned from entering the UK.
When questioned about his stance on LGBT+Q rights, Kyagulanyi emphasized his growth and transformation, stating his aspiration to be inclusive and respectful of all individuals. He alleged that the Anti-Homosexuality Act was politically motivated to oppress the opposition, although some of his MPs voted in favor of the law.
Kyagulanyi’s remarks indicate a delicate balance between projecting a liberal image internationally and maintaining political support within Uganda’s predominantly conservative society.
