Uganda’s Constitutional Court Repeals Controversial Anti-Pornography Law

Africa | Uganda August 17, 2021

Uganda’s Constitutional Court on August 16, 2021, repealed the country’s controversial anti-pornography law, reported some media on August 17, 2021.

The law enacted in 2014, namely Anti-Pornography Act 2014, and dubbed anti-miniskirt law, criminalized acts and material deemed pornographic, including, among others, miniskirts as well as music lyrics and videos considered to be sexy.

As a result of the law, some women wearing miniskirts in public areas were reportedly harassed and assaulted. Some music artists have also been arrested for delivering music material deemed inappropriate under the controversial law. We all remember the arrest of female music artist Jermimah Kansiime alias Panadol Wa'basajja (medicine for men), in 2015, just months after the law came into effect, for her popular music video called Ensolo Yange in which she flaunted her incredible cleavage as well as wet and soapy butt with a thong underwear on. The highly talented young artist is still awaiting trial and her music career has probably been seriously damaged. As such, the law was strongly criticized by human rights groups locally and internationally as discriminatory and particularly violating women’s rights.

The Constitutional Court in reaching its verdict, reportedly said some provisions of the law were unconstitutional, and indicated that acts and material that cause sexual excitement were not harmful to society.

Great ruling by Uganda’s Constitutional Court, that safeguards individual freedom. Legislations like Uganda’s nullified anti-pornography law are not good for Africa. Such kind of laws that seem to be based on morality are regressive and do not only violate individual freedoms but also deter creativity and innovation by talented young people, hence denying them a portion of the multi-billion-dollar global entertainment, fashion, and beauty industries.

All in all, it is ironic that some people would not like to see women in their country looking attractive alias sexy! _____________________________ © 2015 - 2021 Africauptodate. All Rights Reserved