Ex-UN Secretary-General warns Uganda against promoting homophobia at the UN
Former United Nations Secretary-General Kofi Annan says he does not expect Sam Kutesa to promote anti-gay “policies” as President of the United Nations General Assembly.
Mr Kutesa previously claimed that the majority of Africans “abhor” homosexuality.
He strongly support’s Uganda’s Anti-Homosexuality Act.
The law, introduced in February, further criminalises same-sex sexual activity and allows repeat offenders to be sentenced to 14 years in prison.
Ex-United Nations Secretary-General Kofi Annan was asked about Mr Kutesa in a Newsnight interview.
Speaking yesterday evening ahead of Mr Kutesa’s confirmation, Mr Annan said: “I do not expect him to promote those kinds of policies in the General Assembly”.
The 76-year-old Ghanaian diplomat admitted the controversy was embarrassing for the United Nations.
He told presenter Emily Maitlis: “But I see the point you are making that if the UN is going to preach and tell people about human rights, we have to lead by example.”
Mr Annan also criticised Uganda, saying “some people have died” because of the anti-gay legislation.
Earlier in the week, outgoing Labour MEP Michael Cashman called on the UK Government to block Mr Kutesa’s appointment.
Speaking to reporters yesterday, Mr Kutesa said he had “no problem” with gay people as long as they “respect the privacy.”
His UN position has largely a ceremonial role and lasts one year.
Mr Kutesa’s term as president starts in September.
MyPinkNews members are invited to comment on articles to discuss the content we publish, or debate issues more generally. Please familiarise yourself with our community guidelines to ensure that our community remains a safe and inclusive space for all.
Report this comment
Please let us know why you would like to report this comment:
The ability to comment will be removed from anyone who does not follow our Terms & Conditions