Uganda court hears challenge to harsh anti-gay law

Uganda’s Constitutional Court is hearing a case challenging the anti-homosexuality law that came into effect in May.

It imposes severe punishments on those convicted of same sex acts including the death penalty for some crimes.

The law is being challenged by a group of both individuals and human rights organisations who argue it violates constitutional rights and freedoms.

The law has been called many things – draconian, inhumane and a violation of universal human rights.

Those bringing today's case argue that the parliamentary committee responsible did not take enough time to scrutinise it and did not allow any meaningful public participation.

They want the law - which has triggered Western sanctions against Uganda - to be declared unconstitutional and annulled.

They argue it violates a spectrum of constitutional rights and freedoms, including the right to equality and non-discrimination, the right to dignity and privacy and the right to freedom of expression and association.

Under the law, what is termed "aggravated homosexuality" is punishable with a death sentence.