A court in Uganda invalidated a law against gays enacted earlier this year, saying it was illegally adopted during a parliamentary session without a quorum and therefore unconstitutional.
The panel of five judges of the Constitutional Court of the country of East Africa Á ?? said the President of the Parliament acted illegally when he allowed a vote on the measure despite at least three objections to the lack of quorum in the session December 20.
"The president of the parliament was required to ensure a quorum," said court in its ruling. "We conclude that it acted illegally."
The ruling was met before a court full of Ugandans for or against the measure. The activists erupted in loud cheers after the court ruled that the law is now "null and void".
The measure punishable up to life imprisonment for those found guilty of homosexual relations. Also expected to punish with long periods of imprisonment to "try homosexuality" or promote.
The law was passed by lawmakers in December and signed by the president in February.
Frank Mugisha, a leading gay in the country, said the ruling is "a step forward" for gay rights, but is concerned that there is a negative response.
Ladislaus Rwakafuuzi Lawmaker, activist lawyer, said the ruling "affirms the rule of law and constitutionalism in Uganda."
Lawyers and activists appealed arguing that the law was passed illegally and violated certain rights guaranteed in the Constitution.
Attorney Nicholas Opiyo welcomed the ruling but also noted the possibility of a return to make another bill against homosexuals.
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