Sir Simon Muyanga Lutaaya
Uganda’s laws still allow the death penalty, but no executions have been carried out since 1999. This long pause means that while capital punishment remains legal, it is rarely enforced in practice. In 2009, the Supreme Court of Uganda ruled that mandatory death sentences were unconstitutional, requiring judges to consider each case individually and take into account the circumstances surrounding the crime.
Despite these legal safeguards, the death penalty has resurfaced in public debate in recent years. In 2023, the country passed the Anti-Homosexuality Act, which reintroduced the death penalty for “aggravated homosexuality,” including sexual acts with minors or disabled persons. The law drew strong criticism from human rights groups worldwide, who argue that it unfairly targets LGBTQ+ individuals and violates their fundamental rights.
The discussion over the death penalty in Uganda remains highly polarized. Supporters claim it protects vulnerable populations and acts as a deterrent to serious crimes. Critics counter that it violates human rights and does not effectively reduce criminal activity. Uganda continues to navigate a delicate balance between upholding legal protections, ensuring public safety, and meeting international human rights expectations. With global attention on the issue, debates about the morality, fairness, and role of capital punishment are likely to continue for years to come.
