Uganda Antigay Bill to Be Changed

A Uganda government official says the country's horrific antigay bill is likely to be "changed" from its current form when it reaches its final stages.

Deputy Foreign Minister Henry Okello Oryem spoke with the BBC after President Barack Obama denounced the bill as "odious" at the National Prayer Breakfast.

"I am sure the bill will take a different form when it is tabled on the floor in parliament," Oryem told the BBC's Network Africa program.

Oryem did not give specific details about the potential changes, but he added that the government would not have power to make alterations while it remains a private member's bill.

The bill proposes punishments including death and life in prison for gay people.

David Bahati, the bill's sponsor, said two weeks ago that he is willing to "amend some clauses," according to the BBC. A cabinet committee is examining his proposals.