Bobi Wine Blasts World Bank for Prioritizing Gay Rights While Ignoring Other Human Rights Violations in Uganda
Ugandan Opposition leader Robert Kyagulanyi, popularly known by his stage name Bobi Wine, has criticized the World Bank for its decision to cut funding to Uganda following the country’s implementation of a severe anti-homosexuality law.
In a recent public statement, Wine expressed his concern that the World Bank is prioritizing gay rights over other human rights issues plaguing the East African nation. He condemned the institution for allegedly overlooking other major human rights violations, including instances of mass murder, torture, unjustifiable detention, and election rigging.
“It’s disturbing how institutions like these ones give priority to only gay rights and ignore all the other gross human rights violations, including mass murder, torture, detention without charge, and undermining democracy by rigging elections. Dear World Bank, all human rights are human rights!” Wine stated.
His comments followed the World Bank’s announcement that it had effectively halted any new development financing to Uganda, a decision spurred by the country’s recent enactment of the Anti-Homosexuality law.
The World Bank defended its decision, stating that the law fundamentally contradicts its core values and undermines its inclusion efforts. “Uganda’s Anti-Homosexuality Act fundamentally contradicts the World Bank Group’s values. We believe our vision to eradicate poverty on a livable planet can only succeed if it includes everyone irrespective of race, gender, or sexuality,” the Bank said in a statement.
The institution further clarified that the law undermines its commitment to non-discrimination and inclusion, principles it upholds in its work across the globe. The World Bank emphasized that its overarching goal is to protect sexual and gender minorities from discrimination and exclusion in the projects it finances.
As the controversy continues to unfold, all eyes are on the World Bank and Uganda to see how they navigate this complex intersection of human rights and international relations.