Uganda faced with consequences as the US takes action against anti-LGBTQ legislation

After Uganda passed an anti-LGBTQ bill that was condemned by multiple countries including the United Nations, the US imposed visa restrictions on Ugandan officials, according to the US State Department on Friday.The legislation, which was passed in May, calls for the death penalty for "aggravated homosexuality," which includes the transmission of HIV through gay intercourse. It is recognized as one of the world's worst laws. It drew rapid condemnation from Western nations and endangered some of the billions of dollars in annual foreign aid that the country receives. While State Department Secretary Antony Blinken warned last month that the administration would consider placing visa restrictions on Ugandan officials, US President Joe Biden has previously threatened budget cuts and other measures.The State Department stated in a statement on Friday that it would hold accountable anybody who violated human rights in Uganda, "including those of LGBTQI+ persons." The statement avoided naming any individuals or even specifying how many officials would be subject to the visa ban. Additionally, the State Department revised its advice for Americans traveling to Uganda to emphasize the possibility that LGBTQI+ people may face charges, life in prison, or even the death sentence depending on the legislation, it added. "The United States strongly supports the Ugandan people and remains committed to advancing respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms in Uganda and globally," the State Department said. Additionally, same-sex relationships are punishable by a life sentence and a 20-year term for endorsement of homosexuality, under the legislation. The law also imposes severe sanctions on businesses, including as media outlets and non-governmental groups, that knowingly support LGBTQ activities. The conservative and very religious nation of East Africa already outlawed homosexuality, and those who practiced it suffered discrimination and persecution from the police.