New UN General Assembly President: Homosexual behaviour should be kept behind closed doors
Ugandan Foreign Minister Sam Kutesa has been elected President of the United Nations General Assembly and claims heās not “homophobic”.
Mr Kutesa was the unanimous choice of the presiding Africa block on Wednesday evening ā despite a petition against his appointment signed by more than 13,000 people.
Earlier in the week, outgoing Labour MEP Michael Cashman called on the UK Government to blockĀ Mr Kutesa’s appointment.
Speaking to reporters yesterday, Mr Kutesa denied accusations of homophobia and links to corruption in Uganda.
He said: “First of all let me tell you this, that I have had a conspiracyĀ by members of the opposition in our country, both inside and outside, who have tried their best to malign my name.
āI have never been found corrupt, I am not homophobic and I believe that I am the person to lead this organisation for the next sessionā.
The 65-year-old lawyer said he had āno problemā with gay people as long as they ārespect the privacy.ā
His UN position has largely a ceremonial role and lasts one year.
Mr Kutesa’s term as president starts in September.
