( CNN ) -- A Ugandan lawmaker has revived a controversial bill that makes engaging in some homosexual acts punishable by death , a rights group said , a proposal that provoked an international outcry three years ago . The anti-homosexuality bill was first proposed in October 2009 , prompting threats from some European nations to cut aid to Uganda , which relies on millions of dollars from foreign countries . It was later shelved , with a Ugandan government spokesman saying late last year that the bill was killed because it did not reflect a national consensus . `` It 's alarming and disappointing that Uganda 's Parliament will once again consider the anti-homosexuality bill , '' said Michelle Kagari , the deputy Africa program director at Amnesty International . `` If passed , it would represent a grave assault on the human rights of all Ugandans , regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity . '' A Ugandan government spokesman did not respond to CNN requests for comment . The bill is popular among some lawmakers in the nation , and it remains a simmering issue in Parliament . Its progress has been hindered by an international outcry , including condemnation from U.S. President Barack Obama . In addition to proposing the death penalty for certain gay acts , it calls for anyone aware of violations to report them to the authorities or face criminal sanction , according to Human Rights Watch . In 2010 , the lawmaker behind it said the bill is necessary in the conservative east African nation . `` This is a piece of legislation that is needed in this country to protect the traditional family here in Africa , and also protect the future of our children , '' said David Bahati , the lawmaker . `` Every single day of my life now I am still pushing that it passes . '' In addition to punishing homosexuals , it also proposes years in prison for anyone who counsels or reaches out to homosexuals , a provision that would ensnare rights groups , they said . `` It aims to criminalize the 'promotion ' of homosexuality , compels HIV testing in some circumstances , and imposes life sentences for entering into a same-sex marriage , '' Amnesty International said in a statement Tuesday . `` It would also be an offense for a person who is aware of any violations of the bill 's wide-ranging provisions not to report them to the authorities within 24 hours . '' Homosexuality is illegal in most African countries , where sodomy laws were introduced during colonialism . In Uganda , homosexual acts are punishable by 14 years to life in prison , according to rights activists .
The Anti-Homosexuality Bill is first proposed in October 2009 . It sparks an international outcry and is later shelved . - In January 2010, the government announces that it will not introduce a bill to ban gay marriage, but instead has plans for legislation banning discrimination against gays by private businesses.