Uganda drops charges against two women accused of kissing in public
Charges have been dropped against two women in Uganda who were accused of kissing in public. LGBTQ+ groups welcome the news but warn the women may still face harassment or violence.
Two women in Uganda were accused of kissing in public. The charges against them have now been dropped. LGBTQ+ groups are calling this a rare legal win.
The case was brought under Uganda's Anti-Homosexuality Act. This law is one of the strictest anti-LGBTQ+ laws in the world. It can punish same-sex acts with very long prison sentences. In some cases, it can even lead to the death penalty.
Activists welcomed the decision to drop the charges. They say it gives a small reason for hope. However, they are still very worried about the safety of the two women. Even without criminal charges, the women may face serious risks. Harassment and violence against LGBTQ+ people remain common in Uganda.
Human rights organizations continue to speak out against the Anti-Homosexuality Act. They say the law creates fear and danger for LGBTQ+ people every day. Many LGBTQ+ Ugandans have fled the country because of this law. Others live in hiding to stay safe.
The Anti-Homosexuality Act was signed in 2023. It caused strong reactions around the world. Many governments and international organizations criticized the law. The United States even cut some aid to Uganda because of it. But the Ugandan government has defended the law strongly.
LGBTQ+ groups say one dropped case is not enough. They are calling for the full repeal of the Anti-Homosexuality Act. They want all LGBTQ+ people in Uganda to be safe and free. They also want those who have been arrested under this law to be released.
The situation in Uganda remains very difficult for LGBTQ+ people. Activists say international pressure must continue. They believe that global attention can help protect vulnerable people. The fight for LGBTQ+ rights in Uganda is far from over.
For now, the two women are free. But their safety is still not guaranteed. Advocates are asking the international community to keep watching what happens in Uganda.