The move comes despite the condemnation expressed by Western governments, as well as so-called human right advocates.

The parliament of Uganda underlined that they have taken into account the concerns of their people and enacted legislation to safeguard the sanctity of the family, in accordance with Article 31 of the Ugandan Constitution.

“As Parliament of Uganda, we have heeded the concerns our people and legislated to protect the sanctity of family; as per Article 31 of the Constitution of the Republic of Uganda. We have stood strong to defend the Culture. Values and aspirations of our people as per objectives 19 & 24 of our National Objectives and Directive Principles of State Policy.,” parliament speaker Anita Among said in a post on Twitter.

“I now encourage the duty bearers under the law to execute the mandate bestowed upon them in the Anti-Homosexuality Act. The people of Uganda have spoken, and it is your duty now to enforce the law in a fair, steadfast, and firm manner,” she added.

Although sexual perversions were already illegal in Uganda, as in over 30 other African countries, the new law expands its scope by specifically criminalizing all kind of same-sex relations.

It introduces severe punishments, including the death penalty for certain behaviors, such as engaging in gay sex while being HIV-positive, and a 20-year prison sentence for "promoting" sexual perversion. (ILKHA)