Kwoyelo Trial Resumes at Gulu High Court
(L-R): Hon. Justice Justice Duncan Gaswaga, Hon. Justice Micheal Elubu at the Kweyolo case
The International Crimes Division (ICD) has resumed a three weeks' trial session of the former LRA Commander Thomas Kwoyelo at Gulu High Court. The trial is being presided over by a panel of Judges consisting of Hon Justice Duncan Gaswaga, Hon. Justice Micheal Elubu, Hon. Justice Stephen Mubiru, and Hon. Justice Bashaija K. Andrew.
Thomas Kwoyelo is facing 93 counts of charges of war crimes against humanity that he allegedly committed between 1993 and 2005 in Pabbo and Lamogi sub-counties in Amuru District.
On Monday April 17, 2023, the prosecution produced its 49th witness to testify against the former LRA Commander. Mr. Kaamuli Charles Richard, the head of International Crimes at the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, said whereas there have been delays in cross-examination of witnesses, they are gearing up to close state witness presentation. The State is expected to present more witnesses which will bring the conclusion of the 13-year-old case.
Defense Counsel, Mr. Caleb Alaka, who is representing Kwoyelo welcomed the prosecution's move to wind up their case which will give the defense team an opportunity to bring defense witnesses.
He noted that the delayed trial of Kwoyelo has been affected by multiple factors over the years.
The Court's Deputy Registrar, HW Atingu Beatrice Stella, speaking at a press briefing, said they are committed to handle the case to its logical conclusion. "Our commitment as the Judiciary is to see that the matter is handled to its logical conclusion."
She attributed the delays in the trial to limited funding, Covid-19 pandemic, and the complicated nature of the trial.
Posted 17th, April 2023
