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President Obama Calls for Ugandan Government To “Hold Perpetrators Accountable” In Death of David Kato

01/27/11-by Bridgette P. LaVictoire
President Barack Obama released his own statement regarding the brutal murder of LGBT activist David Kato in Uganda. His name and picture were released without authorization by the Ugandan magazine Rolling Stone (not to be confused with the American publication). The atmosphere in Uganda is toxic for lesbians, gays and transsexuals. Unfortunately, this means that more may end up being killed, especially with the push towards repressive punishments for LGBT Ugandans.

Here are the words of President Obama:

I am deeply saddened to learn of the murder of David Kato. In Uganda, David showed tremendous courage in speaking out against hate. He was a powerful advocate for fairness and freedom. The United States mourns his murder, and we recommit ourselves to David’s work.

At home and around the world, LGBT persons continue to be subjected to unconscionable bullying, discrimination, and hate. In the weeks preceding David Kato’s murder in Uganda, five members of the LGBT community in Honduras were also murdered. It is essential that the Governments of Uganda and Honduras investigate these killings and hold the perpetrators accountable.

LGBT rights are not special rights; they are human rights. My Administration will continue to strongly support human rights and assistance work on behalf of LGBT persons abroad. We do this because we recognize the threat faced by leaders like David Kato, and we share their commitment to advancing freedom, fairness, and equality for all.