UN chief urges Uganda to repeal anti-homosexuality law

United Nations, Feb 26:

Secretary General Ban Ki-moon Tuesday voiced his concern over the signing into law of the anti-homosexuality bill in

, urging the authorities to revise or repeal it "at the earliest opportunity", Xinhua reported.

"The secretary general reiterates that everyone is entitled to enjoy the same basic rights and live a life of worth and dignity without discrimination," his spokesperson was quoted as saying in a statement.

This concept is embedded in the UN Charter, the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the Ugandan constitution, the spokesperson added.

Despite pressure from the international community, Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni Monday signed into law the bill which calls for a 14-year jail term for a first conviction and imprisonment for life for the offence of "aggravated homosexuality".

The UN chief also expressed the support of the world organisation for constructive dialogue to achieve change on this matter.

IANS