Uganda's Minister of Foreign Affairs Sam Kutesa has enacted one of the cruelest anti-gay measures in the world. So why has he been appointed as the United Nations' president of the general assembly?
The rotating presidency is mostly a ceremonial position, but why Kutesa, of all people? The homophobic legislation he helped pass will inflict terrible hardship on commited gay couples and even straight people who simply believe in equal rights for all people! Kutesa has publicly called the gay lifestyle "disgusting." He has participated in sending Uganda back to the dark ages. His hateful words and discriminatory actions have been criticized around the world.
Surely the African Union Executive Council who elected Kutesa unanimously could have chosen a better candidate! Failing that, it is the duty of the United Nations to reject this candidate and insist that the executive council put forward another candidate. Tell the UN not to support homophobia!
Dear United Nations:
We the undersigned are saddened to learn that you have appointed Uganda's Minister of Foreign Affairs Sam Kutesa to the presidency of your general assembly. Even if the position carries little power to do damage, you are sending the wrong message.
Kutesa has participated in enacting some of the most homophobic legislation anywhere in the world. He has turned Uganda into a place where gay people will live in terror, fearful of prison sentences that can now be for life! The legislation Kutesa supported will create a terrible hardship for even the most monogamous and loving gay couples while it will also punish and oppress people who even speak out in favor of gay rights.
You should seriously rethink this appointment. It is not just controversial, it is unethical. Appoint another person to this important symbolic role.
