What begins as years behind bars in search of rehabilitation may, according to journalist Dean Lubowa, be exposing some inmates to a different crisis altogether.
Speaking during his prison-focused television program Eggwanga Ly’Abasibe, Lubowa alleged that consensual same-sex relationships are becoming increasingly common in some Ugandan prisons, blaming the trend on prolonged idleness, isolation from families and the psychological strain of incarceration.
According to the journalist, prison authorities occasionally uncover inmates engaging in prohibited same-sex acts. When this happens, he claimed, one of those involved is made to wear a sack and parade around the prison compound while publicly announcing to fellow inmates that they had been caught engaging in the act.
Despite the public humiliation, Lubowa questioned whether such disciplinary measures are sufficient given that same-sex sexual conduct is prohibited under Ugandan law. He argued that, in many cases, those involved are neither placed in isolation nor subjected to stronger disciplinary sanctions.
He further alleged that when prison authorities determine the relationship was consensual, one of the inmates is instead transferred to another prison facility. In his view, such transfers merely relocate the problem instead of serving as an effective deterrent.
Lubowa attributed the alleged behaviour to the harsh realities of prison life, where many inmates spend long hours with little meaningful activity or rehabilitation. He suggested that prolonged boredom, loneliness and emotional stress leave some prisoners vulnerable to unhealthy coping mechanisms.
While acknowledging these challenges, he stressed that they cannot excuse conduct that is prohibited under the country’s laws. He argued that prison authorities should ensure disciplinary measures reflect the seriousness with which Uganda’s legal framework treats such offences.
Uganda has some of the world’s toughest laws against certain homosexual acts following the enactment of the Anti-Homosexuality Act. However, the Uganda Prisons Service has not publicly commented on the specific allegations made during the broadcast, and the claims have not been independently verified.
The remarks have since ignited debate over conditions inside Uganda’s prisons, with some calling for stronger discipline where prison rules are violated, while others continue to advocate for improved inmate welfare, mental health support and rehabilitation programs aimed at reducing idleness behind bars.
