Police arrest two women for kissing in public in Uganda

Two young women have been arrested in Uganda after they were allegedly seen kissing in public, an action authorities say violates the country’s strict anti-homosexuality law.

Police confirmed on Tuesday that the women, both in their 20s, were taken into custody in the northwestern city of Arua, about 450 kilometres from Kampala, following complaints from residents in the area.

According to local police spokesperson Josephine Angucia, neighbours reported the women to authorities after allegedly witnessing them display affection publicly. The complainants were also said to have taken photographs which they submitted as evidence to the police.

Angucia further alleged that the suspects’ one-room apartment had frequently hosted other women who spent nights there, raising suspicions among neighbours of possible same-sex activities.

The suspects have reportedly remained in detention since February 18 without legal representation, while the case has been forwarded to state prosecutors for legal advice and possible court action.

The arrests were made under Uganda’s Anti-Homosexuality Act enacted in 2023, which prescribes severe penalties for same-sex relationships, including life imprisonment, while aggravated cases can attract the death penalty.

Human rights activist Frank Mugisha condemned the arrests, describing the development as a reflection of the harsh realities faced by sexual minorities under the law. He warned that the legislation has encouraged blackmail and extortion, as victims often fear reporting abuses to authorities.

Uganda remains a socially conservative and predominantly Christian country, where the anti-homosexuality legislation has drawn widespread criticism from international rights organisations and foreign governments.

The law previously prompted sanctions and the suspension of financial support by institutions such as the World Bank, although some funding resumed in 2025.