By Mulengera Reporters
The Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, Norbert Mao, has criticized the international community for what he termed as unfair condemnation of Uganda following the enactment of the Anti-Homosexuality Act, 2023. He argued that this backlash comes despite the law still being subject to review by the Supreme Court.
Mao made these remarks on January 16, 2025, while appearing before the Legal and Parliamentary Affairs Committee during a review of the Ministry’s 2025/26 Budget Framework Paper. Responding to MPs’ queries about external financial support in the upcoming budget, Mao confirmed that the Ministry does not anticipate any off-budget support.
“The Ministry has no off-budget support for 2025/26 due to the actions of our international partners, who chose to condemn Uganda for exercising its sovereignty by passing the Anti-Homosexuality Act,” said Mao. “We have consistently explained that this matter is still before the courts, making it premature and unfair to criticize Uganda at this stage.”
He further urged national unity to navigate the challenging times ahead, stressing the importance of prudent resource allocation.
Mao called on Parliament to approve UGX 180 billion to construct offices for the African Humanitarian Agency, a project he believes will enhance Uganda’s international reputation and create jobs.
“We need UGX 180 billion for the campus. It will improve Uganda’s image, create jobs, and underscore our commitment as a nation that hosts over two million refugees,” Mao stated.
According to the Ministry of Justice, Uganda won the bid to host the African Humanitarian Agency through collaborative efforts. Official confirmation of the hosting rights is expected next month during the African Union Summit in Addis Ababa.
Robert Kasande, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Justice, warned that Uganda risks defaulting on its commitment to build the headquarters within two years if funding is delayed.
“When the announcement is made, we will only have two years to complete the headquarters and the residence for the agency head. Without this funding, we are in danger of failing on our pledge,” Kasande explained.
The Ministry is also seeking UGX 55 billion to complete the second phase of the Justice, Law, and Order Sector (JLOS) House and UGX 17 billion for a parking deck. Mao emphasized that these facilities would save the government UGX 30 billion annually in rent expenses.
“Our staff currently lack adequate office space, and file storage remains a challenge. Digitization of files has been prioritized to mitigate losses during relocations, but this isn’t sustainable,” Mao remarked. “With the completion of JLOS House, we, along with other line institutions, will cut down significantly on rent expenses.” (For comments on this story, get back to us on 0705579994 [WhatsApp line], 0779411734 & 041 4674611 or email us at mulengeranews@gmail.com).
