Uganda's parliament passed anti-gay legislation in the evening that proposes tough new penalties for same-sex relationships. Parliament spokeswoman Annet Anita Among said that "the bill was approved in record time".

Homosexuality is already illegal in the conservative East African nation and it is not yet clear what new sanctions have been passed by Parliament.

"The Chamber recognizes, protects and safeguards the sovereignty and morals of this country," said Among spokesman. The bill now awaits the signature of President Yoweri Museveni, who may however choose to veto or sign it.

The law enjoys broad public support in Uganda, while critical reactions to this provision are very timid due to the authoritarianism of Museveni's government which has eroded critical spaces in civil society.

In recent months, some unfounded conspiracy theories accusing obscure international forces of promoting homosexuality in the country have had a strong echo on social media in Uganda.

Last week, police announced they had arrested six men for "homosexual practices" in the southern city of Jinja.

(Unioneonline)

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