Anti-Gay Law Saga: Basalirwa’s JEEMA Demands Apology from Bobi Wine.

The opposition Justice Forum party has demanded an apology from Robert Kyagulanyi alias Bobi Wine after the National Unity Platform (NUP) leader told BBC in an interview that the Anti-homosexuality law targeted the opposition and that some NUP MPs were working with President Museveni.

JEEMA, whose President, Asuman Basalirwa spearheaded the Anti-Homosexuality legislation in Parliament, said Bobi’s statements were deeply concerning and demanded a retraction.

“I am writing to express our deep concern and disappointment regarding the accusations you made against your colleagues, and members of Parliament from the opposition,” said JEEMA’s Secretary General, Mohamed Kateregga.  

“While on BBC recently when you were asked about the Anti-homosexual law, in your response you stated that the law was brought by Mr Museveni to target you as an opposition leader, and went ahead to accuse your colleagues of working with Mr. Museveni,” he added.

“You are aware that the Anti-homosexual law was brought by Hon Asuman Basalirwa, the President of the Justice Forum and it was in line with what we believe in as Jeema. This law was overwhelmingly supported by the whole house, including NUP MPs; who risked their lives to protect our cultural and religious values. Your response, in which you accused these dedicated individuals of betrayal, have deeply troubled members who are seeking to see a change of leadership in our country.”

BBC Interview: Bobi Wine Cagey on Anti-Gay Law; says Some NUPs MPs are Working with Museveni

All NUP MPs backed the law. 

During the plenary discussions, Bobi Wine did not publicly ask his MPs to oppose the legislation.

Bobi Wine appeared on BBC while in London after a ten-year visa ban over his anti-gay lyrics.

Bobi Wine had been excluded by the UK’s Home Office on the basis of his anti-gay lyrics he released in 2014, urging the public to “shoot all the battymen.” 

Asked on BBC to make his position on LGBT clear to the world, Bobi said he had grown and transformed and that he wanted to be “known for a leader that is respectful and inclusive of everybody.” 

He further alleged that Museveni deliberately sponsored the law – not in the interests of the people of Uganda – but to target opposition. 

Asked why his NUP MPs voted in favour of the law in its entirety, Bobi Wine noted: “Sure, in my party, I have MPs that are working with Gen Museveni.”

He did not identify the MPs working with the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM). 

The BCC host further asked whether he would repeal the Anti-Homsexuality Law if he became president of Uganda, Bobi Wine responded: “I would be very cautious because I know it was largely targeting the opposition, mainly myself.”

Bobi appears to be torn between two worlds – projecting an image of a liberal leader in the modern western societies where most of his donors are based and retaining political support among his largely conservative countrymen. 

JEEMA said Bobi has “the right to support homosexuality, without demonising your fellow leaders who have treated you with respect since they came to know you. We call upon you to retract your accusations and demonstrate your commitment to fostering a culture of respect and cooperation with fellow leaders.”