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A Ugandan man became the first person in the country to be charged with “aggravated homosexuality,” an offense that is punishable by death under a recently enacted anti-gay law, Reuters reported Tuesday.
Ugandan authorities said the 20-year-old individual was charged this month after he “performed unlawful sexual intercourse” with a 41-year-old man. But they did not specify why the act was considered aggravated, nor did they confirm if other people have been accused of similar charges.
The defendant’s lawyer also did not provide details of the case but added that four other people are being charged with other offenses under Uganda’s new legislation.
In May, the country toughened its anti-LGBTQ laws despite local and international criticism, as well as threats of sanctions.
The bill sentences defendants to life in prison for same-sex intercourse, but its most peculiar provision is one about “aggravated homosexuality.” This provision includes repeat offenses, gay sex that transmits terminal illnesses, or same-sex intercourse with a minor, an elderly person or a person with disabilities.
Individuals found guilty of such charges face the death penalty.
Uganda has not executed anyone in around 20 years, however.
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