Charges dropped against two women in Uganda accused of kissing in public
Ugandan activists are challenging the country’s Anti-Homosexuality Act. (Getty)
A member of the LGBTQ community prays during an evangelical church service in Kampala, Uganda (Image: Getty Images)
Charges have dropped against Wendy Faith and Alesi Diana Denise, two women accused of kissing in public in Uganda, though activists warn the pair could still face serious danger.
LGBTQ+ rights advocate Frank Mugisha said in a post on X on 15 July that Uganda’s Director of Public Prosecutions had “permanently discontinued” the prosecution.
“The case had attracted international attention after the two were arrested over allegations of kissing in public and charges brought under Uganda’s Anti-Homosexuality Act,” he wrote. “Finally, Wendy and Diana are free. Thank you to everyone who stood with them and supported them throughout this journey.”
The case related to allegations the women kissed in public in Arua City, northwestern Uganda, as reported by The Guardian in February 2026.
They had been charged under the Anti-Homosexuality Act (AHA) 2023, cited as Section 2(1) (2), which can lead to a maximum penalty of life in prison.
The discontinuation was announced on a day when the women were scheduled to appear in court, as reported by Erasing 76 Crimes.
Sexual Minorities Uganda applauded the development in a post on X, writing: “Today, we celebrate an important victory: Wendy and Diana are finally free. We extend our deepest gratitude to everyone who stood in solidarity, raised their voices, advocated, and supported Wendy and Diana throughout this journey. Your unwavering support made a difference.”
How the case unfolded
Wendy Faith and Alesi Diana Denise were arrested on 18 February, 2026. They spent more than a week in detention before appearing in court on 27 February, when they were granted bail, then re-arrested hours later.
On 16 March, they were denied bail and sent back to prison, before being granted bail again on 8 April.
The case drew international attention after concerns the women could face life imprisonment over an allegation involving a public display of affection.
In Uganda, public allegations connected to homosexuality can trigger stigma, harassment, and safety risks regardless of court outcomes.
Warnings of backlash
Lesbophobia Archive warned in a post on X: “This win will anger conservative Ugandans and may incite death threats or mob violence,” adding that they had not yet raised enough money to find a safe place.
A hostile reaction also appeared online from local politician Richard Job Matua, who wrote in a post on X: “I warn you that we are watching everything and will NOT hesitate to arrest those girls should they attempt to continue with that habit. Take it from me that we strongly reject homosexuality in Lugbara community.”
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