Official: Gambia lawmakers pass bill imposing life imprisonment for some homosexual acts

ABIDJAN, Ivory Coast – A Gambian lawmaker says the National Assembly has passed a bill imposing life imprisonment for some homosexual acts.

Minority leader Samba Jallow said Monday the bill brings life sentences for "aggravated homosexuality."

A draft bill seen by The Associated Press contains language identical to a controversial anti-gay bill signed into law in Uganda earlier this year. It defines "aggravated homosexuality" to apply to "serial offenders" and people living with HIV/AIDS.

National Assembly Speaker Abdoulie Bojang confirmed the bill amending the criminal code was passed last month but would not say whether there had been changes to the draft.

Amnesty International says the bill, if signed by President Yahya Jammeh, would add to "the climate of fear" facing Gambia's sexual minorities, who can already be jailed for up to 14 years.