The family of a missing gay man in Uganda is making a heartfelt appeal to anyone with information about his whereabouts to come forward and end their search.
Henry Kayondo Kitone, 32 years old, has been missing, causing distress and concern among his loved ones. According to Thomas Kinene, a member of Kitone’s family, the last contact they had with him was on January 4th.
Kinene revealed that Kitone expressed fear of persecution due to his sexual orientation, as he disclosed being hunted for being gay. Kitone was also a member of the opposition party National Unity Platform (NUP).
Concerns for Kitone’s safety escalated amid Uganda’s strict laws against homosexuality. The legislation imposes severe penalties, including lengthy imprisonment, for those found guilty of engaging in same-sex relationships.
The harsh legal environment, coupled with societal stigma and potential violence from community members, intensified Kitone’s vulnerability and anxiety about his safety.
Despite international criticism and calls for respect for human rights, Uganda’s parliament recently passed legislation reinforcing anti-LGBTQ+ laws, further jeopardizing the safety and rights of individuals like Kitone.
Kitone’s family’s plea for information underscores the urgent need to protect the rights and safety of marginalized communities in Uganda, particularly amid the ongoing crackdown on LGBTQ+ rights.
