West Budama North East Member of Parliament, Fox Odoi, has sparked a heated debate by calling for the legalization and regulation of prostitution in Uganda.
Speaking during a recent discussion, Odoi argued that the move would benefit the country economically while also offering better oversight of the sector.
“I strongly feel we should legalize prostitution, regulate that sector, promote it, and make some money from it,” Odoi stated.
He further emphasized that the role of legislators is to focus on governance and not morality. “Morality is for the reverends, canons, and the Fathers,” he added, drawing a clear line between policy-making and religious doctrine.
The proposal has, however, ignited fierce criticism from religious leaders and conservative figures. Prominent among them is Pastor Martin Ssempa, a vocal critic of progressive sexual policies, who took to X (formerly Twitter) to denounce Odoi’s remarks.
“He is the single promoter of homosexuality on the committee…now he is here pushing the trafficking of women for sex. Pathetic and idiotic,” Ssempa wrote, accusing Odoi of promoting practices that could harm societal values and lead to exploitation.
The clash has highlighted the tension between Uganda’s deeply entrenched cultural and religious values and progressive or in some quarters,regressive voices calling for reform.