HIV Prevention & Control Bill passed

Health rights activists have asked President Yoweri Museveni not to assent to the just passed HIV/AIDS prevention and control bill.

Parliament this afternoon passed the bill, which provides for 10 years in jail for someone who intentionally infects another with HIV.

Speaking shortly after the bill was passed; Dr Lydia Mungherera who works with The AIDS Support Organisation says it is discriminatory and people will end up shunning medical help.

However, the chairman of the Health committee, Dr. Kenneth Omona defended the bill, noting that it will help in the fight

The contentious private member’s bill was introduced in parliament on April 30, 2010.

Clause 41 states that a person who wilfully and intentionally transmits HIV to another person commits an offence.

The ultimate penalty on conviction is 10 years in jail or a fine of Shs 5m or both.

The bill also provides for a Trust Fund which shall consist of a 2 % tax levied on beers, soft drinks spirits and bottled water.

Written by Reporter