KAMPALA -UGANDA | In a dramatic police raid, and several were arrested on May 4, 2022, from the home of Naome, a known human rights defender. The raid, which targeted individuals suspected of being involved in homosexuality including Nakayima Jane, Sabita namujju, Nakiyimba Christine, George Sempebwa, Namagembe Jannifer, Halima Namunkansa, Tamu Damali and Jennifer Katonto. Homosexuality is considered a criminal offense in Uganda, has sparked widespread controversy and concern among human rights activists.
The Arrest
The police operation was initiated following complaints from neighbors alleging that the residents were a nuisance and corrupting the youth. Upon storming the house, law enforcement officers apprehended everyone present, however it was reported six others managed to escaped and being hunted by police to be presented to courts of law. Eyewitnesses described a chaotic scene as individuals were handcuffed, publicly beaten, and branded as homosexuals.
Naome: The Absent Mastermind
Notably absent during the raid was Naome, the homeowner, and alleged mastermind behind the activities. Naome is a prominent human rights defender known for her advocacy for vulnerable youth and the LGBTQ+ community. Her efforts to provide a safe haven for individuals facing persecution have made her a target of law enforcement and conservative groups in Uganda.
Police spokespersons have confirmed that Naome is currently being sought to explain her role in the incidents associated with homosexuality. Her absence at the time of the raid has led to an intensified search, with authorities aiming to apprehend her and investigate the full extent of her involvement.
Ongoing Hunt for Naome
As the search for Naome continues, human rights organizations have raised alarms over the treatment of LGBTQ+ individuals and their allies in Uganda. The country’s strict anti-LGBTQ laws and hostile environment leave little room for protection, often resulting in violence and persecution.
Naome’s commitment to defending the rights of the marginalized has placed her at great risk. Her efforts to provide a safe space for individuals like Christine highlight the dire need for legal and societal reforms in Uganda to protect human rights and ensure safety for all citizens.
