By Mary Asujo
Authorities in Uganda have refuted claims in the US travel advisory warning its citizens to take precautions when traveling to uganda, saying the advisory did not reflect facts on the ground.
The June 12, US level 3 travel advisory quoted inter alia critical aspects of insecurity, violent crimes, rule of law and human rights concerns. The advisory also urged potential travellers to Uganda to reconsider the above and reflect on the harsh LGBTQ+ legislation recently adoptes in Uganda.
The Permanent Secretary Foreign Affairs, Mr Aggrey Bagyire told this reporter that contrary to the US advisory, uganda remains one of “the safest places on the continent.”
Bagyire said it is unfortunate that the travel advisories are normally one sided; “They are unilateral. The authors never seek the views of the other party.” He said.
However, the opposition in parliament, represented by shadow minister of Foreign Affairs, Hon. Muwada Nkunyingi, accused government for failing to settle the differences with some international communities especially US diplomatically.
Hon. Muwada urged ugandan citizens to equally follow the precautionary measures issued by US to its citizens in the updated level 3 travel advisory.
According to Muwad also MP Kyadondo East, government has declined renewing host agreements for sensitive international organizations including the UN Human Rights office and several other international agencies.
Ugandan legislators stood firm against western criticism over the bill since it was introduced to parliament in March, even if it meant cuts to foreign aid or other repercussions.
President Yoweri Museveni also defied warnings that approving the much-criticised bill against homosexuality would strain ties between Kampala and key foreign partners and aid donors, including Washington.
Yestderday, a section of Ugandan activists called on international donors to impose sanctions on rights abusers after President Yoweri Museveni signed an anti-gay law described as one of the world’s harshest.