Activists in Uganda are challenging the country’s anti-gay laws. (Getty)
Members of the LGBTQ community pray during a service at an evangelical church in Kampala, Uganda (Image: Getty Images)
Charges have been dropped against Wendy Faith and Alesi Diana Dennis, who were accused of kissing in public in Uganda, but activists warn the pair could still face serious danger.
LGBTQ+ rights activist Frank Mugisha said: Post to X On July 15, Uganda’s Director of Public Prosecutions announced that the prosecution had been “permanently stayed”.
“The case attracted international attention after the two were arrested on charges of kissing in public and charges brought under Uganda’s anti-gay laws,” he wrote. “Finally, Wendy and Diana have been released. We would like to thank everyone who has stood by and supported them during this journey.”
The incident is related to allegations that the women kissed in public in the city of Arua in northwestern Uganda, and was reported. guardian In February 2026.
They have been charged under Section 2(1)(2) of the Anti-Homosexuality Act 2023 (AHA), which could carry a maximum sentence of life imprisonment.
According to reports, the cancellation was announced on the day the women were scheduled to appear in court. Eliminate 76 crimes.
Sexual minority Ugandans applauded this development in a post on write“Today, we celebrate an important victory: Wendy and Diana are finally free. We express our deepest gratitude to everyone who stood in solidarity, spoke up, advocated, and supported Wendy and Diana throughout this journey. Your unwavering support made a difference.”
Development of the incident
Wendy Faith and Alesi Diana Dennis were arrested on February 18, 2026. The two were detained for more than a week, released on bail on February 27, and appeared in court, where they were rearrested hours later.
On March 16, they were denied bail and sent back to prison, but were granted bail again on April 8.
The case attracted international attention amid concerns that the women could be sentenced to life in prison on charges related to public displays of affection.
In Uganda, regardless of the outcome of a court case, public allegations related to homosexuality can cause prejudice, harassment, and security risks.
Backlash warning
The Lesbianphobia Archive is Post to X: “This victory could anger conservative Ugandans and incite death threats and mob violence,” adding that not enough money has yet been raised to find a safe haven.
A hostile reaction also appeared online from local politician Richard Job Matua. Post to X“I want to warn you that we are monitoring everything and will not hesitate to arrest the girls if they try to continue the habit. It is not my idea that we strongly reject homosexuality in the Lugbara community.”
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Source: PinkNews | Latest lesbian, gay, bi and trans news | LGBTQ+ news – www.thepinknews.com
