Wendy Faith and Alesi Diana Denise were taken into custody under laws that have outraged LGBTQ+ community and rights activistsTwo women have been arrested and detained in Uganda after allegedly kissing in public, an act of “same-sex activity” which can lead to a life sentence in the east African country..Wendy Faith, a 22-year-old musician known as Torrero Bae, and Alesi Diana Denise, 21, were taken into custody after police raided their rented room in Uganda’s north-west Arua City last week.

Two Women Arrested in Uganda for Allegedly Kissing in Public Could Face Life Sentence

📅 February 27, 2026
✍️ Editor: Sudhir Choudhary, The Vagabond News

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Arrest Reported in Kampala

Two women were arrested in Kampala, Uganda, on February 25, 2026, after witnesses reported that they had kissed in a public area of the city, according to local police statements.

The arrest took place at approximately 6:30 p.m. local time near a commercial district in central Kampala. Officers from the Uganda Police Force detained the women following complaints from members of the public.

Police spokesperson Fred Enanga confirmed Wednesday that the women are being investigated under Uganda’s anti-homosexuality legislation. Their identities have not been publicly disclosed pending formal charges.

Legal Framework and Potential Penalties

Uganda enacted the Anti-Homosexuality Act in May 2023, introducing strict penalties for same-sex relations. Under provisions of the law, certain offenses categorized as “aggravated homosexuality” may carry life imprisonment.

Authorities have not specified whether the charges in this case fall under aggravated provisions or other sections of the statute. Legal analysts note that penalties vary depending on prosecutorial interpretation and court findings.

The two women were reportedly transferred to a local detention facility pending further legal review. A preliminary hearing is expected in the coming days before the High Court in Kampala.

Government and Rights Group Reactions

Officials from Uganda’s Ministry of Ethics and Integrity have defended enforcement of the law, stating that authorities are obligated to uphold statutes passed by Parliament.

Human rights organizations have criticized the arrest, arguing that public displays of affection between consenting adults should not be criminalized. International advocacy groups have previously expressed concern over the impact of Uganda’s legislation on civil liberties and personal freedoms.

Diplomatic missions in Kampala have not issued formal statements regarding this specific arrest as of February 27, 2026.

Broader Context

The Anti-Homosexuality Act has drawn international scrutiny since its passage. Several Western governments have imposed visa restrictions and adjusted aid programs in response to concerns about human rights protections.

Ugandan officials maintain that the law reflects cultural and legislative priorities determined by elected representatives.

Legal experts note that enforcement actions are typically reviewed by the judiciary, and outcomes can depend on evidentiary standards presented in court.

Next Steps

The Uganda Police Force stated that the investigation remains ongoing. Prosecutors will determine whether formal charges will be filed and under which statutory provisions.

If charged under the most severe sections of the law, the women could face life imprisonment. However, final sentencing would depend on judicial proceedings and potential appeals.

As of Thursday evening, no trial date had been set, and the women remain in custody pending further court action.