Manchester’s LGBT Foundation has been caught up in an online hoax, with false claims circulating the charity has donated millions to a political party in Uganda.
On Monday (January 4), a screen shot of a letter appeared online.
It was said the LGBT+ organisation had donated $10m to the National Unity Platform (NUP) - a social-liberal and progressive political party in Uganda.
The letter was apparently signed by Rob Cookson, the charity’s deputy chief executive.
LGBT Foundation said the letter is a hoax - and that the organisation hasn't been communicating with the NUP.
In a statement, the body tweeted : “We've been made aware of a fraudulent letter circulating on social media claiming we have pledged our support to a political party in Uganda.
“We're a charity in England offering services & support for LGBT people and are in no way affiliated with any political party.
“The letter also claims we have donated $10m to this political party. This is also false.”
Speaking to the Manchester Evening News , a spokesperson said the charity has been in touch with Ugandan activists in a bid to understand where the letter originated.
"LGBT Foundation is a charity in England and is in no way affiliated with any political party", Mr Cookson added.
"This malicious attempt to associate our organisation with the National Unity Platform in Uganda has unfortunately given false information and hope to a number of LGBT Ugandans who have reached out seeking practical and financial support which we are sadly unable to give.
"We stand in solidarity with LGBT people in Uganda and around the world fighting for a fair and equal society.”
