Thomas Kwoyelo trial (possibly) delayed
On 4th April 2016, the pre-trial for Thomas Kwoyelo was held at the High Court in Kampala. The prosecution team led by Charles Kaamuli presented charges against Kwoyelo and planned to introduce 113 witnesses to the International Crimes Division of the High Court (the ICD) during trial proceedings. The presiding judge set forth May 2, 2016 as the date for the main trial but questions have, however, raised as to whether the May 2, 2016 will be able to take effect.
According to Registrar Court of Appeal & Registrar in charge of Special Projects, ICD, Mrs. Harriet Ssali Lule , during the ‘Kwoyelo Trial: CSO Outreach Strategy Workshop’ held in Gulu on 20 April by Refugee Law Project, the ICD has not been able to carry out outreach as planned due to lack of funds.
In her presentation, Registrar Ssali Lule said Kwoyelo’s case did not stall due to any fault on the side of the ICD nor the judges, but rather due to the constitutional question and interpretation of the Amnesty Act.
The workshop was also informed that there is need for collaboration with all the stakeholders including the Civil Society Organisation (CSOs) to support the ICD as well as the trial process.
South Sudanese hope for peace as Machar to return to Juba
On Sunday 24, South Sudanese held peace prayers in the capital Juba ahead of the arrival of Riek Machar, reports AFP a move that may see an end to two years of war.
This follows a step by the South Sudan government to issue clearance for Machar, under the UN chief Ban Ki-moon instructions that he (Machar) returns to Juba without delay.
Should the process go on successfully, Marchar will have to take up the post of first vice president alongside arch-rival President Salva Kiir. But most importantly, the move will possibly see an end to the conflict in South Sudan.
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Background of the recent South Sudan conflict
From the time when violence broke out in South Sudan in mid-December 2013, the country experienced reignited ethnic divisions and gross human rights violations.
Under international pressure, there have been attempts to restore peace in the country to no avail. The two sides earlier signed a peace deal in the Ethiopian capital, which paves the way for a ceasefire followed by the formation of a transitional government, the drafting of a new constitution and, eventually, fresh elections.
Both side violated what was agreed which saw a swift resumption of hostilities in the country. (More information: BBC).
