President Museveni Engages in Productive Discussions with ICC Chief Prosecutor Karim A. A. Khan KC

By Gad Masereka

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni of Uganda met with the Chief Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (ICC), Mr. Karim A. A. Khan KC, on Saturday, February 24, 2024, at State Lodge, Nakasero. The meeting, characterized by constructive dialogue, touched on various significant matters, including Uganda’s status as a valued state party to the ICC.

Among the topics discussed was Uganda’s pivotal role in bringing an end to the brutal Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA) insurgency in Northern Uganda. Mr. Khan commended the Ugandan government for its unwavering support and collaboration with the ICC in the prosecution of war criminals, particularly in relation to the atrocities committed by the LRA.

“I’m very grateful to share your knowledge of history and understanding of the region. This has been a very productive meeting and I hope to come to Uganda again for more such engagements,” expressed Mr. Khan, reflecting on the fruitful exchange of insights during the meeting.

In addition to his meeting with President Museveni, Mr. Khan is scheduled to hold discussions with key figures in Uganda’s legal and security apparatus. This includes anticipated meetings with Attorney General Kiryowa Kiwanuka and Ambassador Joseph Ocwet, the Director of External Security Organisation (ESO). These engagements aim to further enhance cooperation between Uganda and the ICC, particularly regarding ongoing and forthcoming legal proceedings.

Mr. Khan’s visit to Uganda follows his prior interaction with Uganda’s Minister for Justice and Constitutional Affairs, Norbert Mao, in Hague, Netherlands. During this encounter, preparations for the trial of notorious LRA warlord Joseph Kony were discussed. The trial, set to commence soon in absentia, focuses on Kony’s alleged involvement in 36 counts of war crimes and crimes against humanity committed between 2002 and 2005 in northern Uganda.

While the case originally involved other LRA leaders, including Raska Lukwiya, Okot Odhiambo, and Vincent Otti, proceedings against them were terminated due to their demise. However, efforts to bring justice for the victims of the LRA’s atrocities remain steadfast, with the ICC and Uganda collaborating closely to ensure accountability for these heinous crimes.