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Two Women Detained in Arua City Under Uganda’s Strict Anti-Homosexuality Law
Authorities in Arua City, located in Uganda’s West Nile region, have taken into custody two women accused of engaging in same-sex relations, a violation of the country’s stringent Anti-Homosexuality Act enacted in 2023. The arrest followed reports that the women were observed publicly displaying affection.
Details of the Arrest and Legal Context
On February 18, 2026, 22-year-old dancer Wendy Faith and 21-year-old Alesi Diana Denise were apprehended after neighbors alerted police about their behavior. According to local law enforcement spokesperson Josephine Angucia, the neighbors claimed to have witnessed the women kissing openly and documented the incidents with photographs. Additionally, suspicions arose from observations of multiple women visiting their modest rented accommodation, allegedly participating in same-sex gatherings.
Since their arrest, the two women have remained in custody without access to legal counsel. The case has been submitted to the state prosecutor for further instructions and potential court proceedings.
Understanding Uganda’s Anti-Homosexuality Legislation
Uganda’s Anti-Homosexuality Act 2023 criminalizes consensual same-sex relations with penalties reaching life imprisonment. The law also stipulates the death penalty for what it terms “aggravated homosexuality.” This legislation has drawn widespread international criticism for its harshness and human rights implications.
Human Rights Concerns and International Reactions
Human rights defenders have strongly condemned the arrests. Frank Mugashi, a prominent advocate, highlighted on social media platform X that such enforcement perpetuates a climate of fear and vulnerability within the LGBTQ+ community. He emphasized that the law has inadvertently empowered extortionists who exploit the community’s reluctance to report abuses due to fear of prosecution.
Uganda, a predominantly Christian nation with conservative social values, has faced significant backlash from global organizations and Western governments over this legislation. The United Nations and various human rights groups have denounced the law, citing it as a violation of fundamental human rights. In response, the World Bank temporarily halted financial aid to Uganda, though funding resumed in mid-2025 following diplomatic engagements.
Broader Implications for LGBTQ+ Rights in East Africa
The arrest of Wendy Faith and Alesi Diana Denise underscores the ongoing challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals in Uganda and the wider East African region. Despite growing global advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights, many countries in the area maintain laws that criminalize same-sex relationships, often justified by cultural and religious norms.
Recent surveys indicate that over 80% of Ugandans oppose the legalization of same-sex marriage, reflecting deep-rooted societal attitudes. However, activists continue to push for reforms and greater protections, emphasizing the need for dialogue and education to foster acceptance and reduce discrimination.
