US EditionICC appeals judges greenlight first in absentia hearing over Ugandan rebel leader Kony
- The International Criminal Court scheduled a first-ever in absentia confirmation of charges hearing against Ugandan rebel Joseph Kony for September 2025 in The Hague.
- Joseph Kony, head of a violent rebel faction responsible for widespread atrocities in northern Uganda between 2002 and 2005, remains at large and is wanted for numerous war crimes.
- Judges rejected Kony's defense appeal against proceeding without his presence, citing sufficiently robust safeguards and legal precedents allowing hearings in absentia.
- Kony faces 39 counts including murder, sexual enslavement, rape, and recruitment of child soldiers, while ICC prosecutors expect the hearing to expedite future trials upon his arrest.
- This unprecedented ICC decision sets a precedent for trying high-profile suspects at large, highlighting judicial resolve despite ongoing challenges capturing Kony.
21 Articles
21 Articles
ICC appeals judges approve first-ever ‘in absentia’ hearing against Uganda warlord Joseph Kony
Appeals judges at the International Criminal Court (ICC) on Tuesday authorized the tribunal’s landmark in absentia hearing, paving the way for trial proceedings against the fugitive Ugandan rebel leader Joseph Kony to move forward despite his continued evasion of arrest. Judicial proceedings at the ICC are comprised of two phases at the first instance trial level, which are the confirmation and trial proceedings, enshrined under Article 61 and A…
ICC Sanctions Historic In Absentia Hearing Against Joseph Kony
The International Criminal Court has approved its first in absentia hearing for Ugandan rebel leader Joseph Kony over war crimes. Despite unknown whereabouts, a confirmation of charges hearing is set. This case paves the way for similar proceedings against high-profile figures, capturing significant global attention.
Coverage Details
Bias Distribution
- 54% of the sources lean Left
To view factuality data please Upgrade to Premium
Ownership
To view ownership data please Upgrade to Vantage
