In February, Uganda passed a new law which "authorises life imprisonment for "repeat homosexuals" – couples in a committed relationship; seven-year sentences for anyone helping gay people to avoid detection; and five years in prison for "promotion of homosexuality"."
Sam Kutesa, Uganda's foreign affairs chief, was responsible for defending the law in the face of international condemnation. Kutesa said "the majority of Africans abhor this practice".
He is scheduled to be "elected by acclamation", as he is the only candidate for the 12-month post, on June 11, 2014.
Voices of disapproval include:
- New York senator Kirsten Gillibrand who said: "It would be disturbing to see the foreign minister of a country that passed an unjust, harsh and discriminatory law based on sexual orientation preside over the UN general assembly";
- The UK rights campaigner Peter Tatchell who said: "David Cameron and William Hague should be lobbying the UN to block Kutesa's appointment on the grounds that his political record is inconsistent with UN principles".