U.S. Expands Visa Restrictions on Uganda, Imposes New Restrictions on Zimbabwe
The move targets officials undermining democracy and repressing marginalized groups, following Uganda's harsh anti-LGBTQI+ law and Zimbabwe's disputed election.
- U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken has expanded visa restrictions on Ugandan officials, targeting those believed to be undermining democracy and repressing marginalized groups, including the LGBTQI+ community, environmental activists, human rights defenders, journalists, and civil society organizers.
- The visa restrictions also apply to family members of these officials.
- The move follows Uganda's enactment of a harsh anti-LGBTQI+ law in May, which carries the death penalty for 'aggravated homosexuality.'
- Blinken also announced a new visa restriction policy for officials in Zimbabwe, particularly those believed to be undermining democracy.
- The Zimbabwean policy comes after President Emmerson Mnangagwa won a second term in a disputed vote in August.