Keypoints:
- Two women arrested in Arua over alleged public kissing
- Case linked to Uganda’s Anti-Homosexuality Act
- Law remains among world’s strictest anti-LGBT statutes
UGANDAN police have arrested two young women accused of engaging in same-sex conduct after an alleged public kissing incident in the northwestern city of Arua, authorities confirmed on Tuesday.
The arrests come amid continued enforcement of Uganda’s controversial Anti-Homosexuality Act, legislation introduced in 2023 that has drawn widespread international criticism while receiving strong backing from supporters within the country.
Arrest follows alleged public incident
In a statement released by police, officials said the suspects — a 22-year-old entertainer and a 21-year-old unemployed woman — were detained on February 18 following reports that they were seen kissing openly in public.
Authorities alleged the pair were involved in ‘queer and unusual acts believed to be sexual in nature’ and claimed the incident occurred ‘in broad daylight’. Police further stated that the alleged conduct under investigation may have begun last year.
The women remain in custody as investigations continue, although police did not immediately clarify whether formal charges had been filed.
Enforcement of controversial legislation
Uganda’s Anti-Homosexuality Act, enacted in 2023, remains one of the most debated pieces of legislation in East Africa. The government passed the law despite diplomatic pressure from Western governments and objections raised by local and international human rights organisations.
Supporters argue the legislation reflects national cultural values and legal sovereignty. Critics, however, contend that the law criminalises private relationships and increases risks faced by sexual minorities.
Under the statute, same-sex intercourse carries a sentence of life imprisonment. The law also introduces the death penalty for offences categorised as ‘aggravated homosexuality’.
Definition of aggravated offences
The aggravated category includes repeat offences, cases involving minors, elderly persons or individuals with disabilities, and situations where transmission of a terminal illness is alleged.
Legal analysts say the breadth of the law has raised concerns about interpretation and enforcement, particularly regarding evidence standards and personal freedoms.
Human rights advocates have repeatedly warned that enforcement actions linked to the legislation could contribute to stigma and social tension. Ugandan authorities, meanwhile, maintain that the law is enforced within the country’s legal framework and reflects democratic legislative processes.
Recent court ruling highlights legal scrutiny
The arrests follow a recent judicial development involving the first individual charged under the aggravated homosexuality provision. Earlier this month, a Ugandan court dismissed the case after determining the accused was of unsound mind following prolonged detention on remand.
The ruling prompted renewed debate among legal observers about due process and detention conditions in cases arising from the law.
Continuing domestic and global debate
Uganda’s stance on homosexuality continues to generate international attention, with diplomatic partners closely monitoring enforcement of the legislation. Some foreign governments have reviewed aid relationships and cooperation frameworks since the law’s adoption.
Within Uganda, public opinion remains divided, reflecting broader debates about cultural identity, legal authority and human rights protections.
Police said investigations into the Arua incident are ongoing and that additional information would be released as the case progresses.
