Kony case: ICC Pre-Trial Chamber III confirms the charges of war crimes and crimes against humanity; accused still at large

Kony Case: ICC Confirms War Crimes and Crimes Against Humanity Charges

On 6 November 2025, Pre-Trial Chamber III of the International Criminal Court (ICC) confirmed all 39 charges brought by the Prosecutor in the case The Prosecutor v. Joseph Kony, committing Kony to face trial before a Trial Chamber.

According to the ICC Rome Statute, trials cannot proceed in the absence of the accused, meaning the case will only advance once Joseph Kony is apprehended.

Findings of the Pre-Trial Chamber

The Chamber, consisting of Judge Althea Violet Alexis-Windsor (Presiding Judge), Judge Iulia Antoanella Motoc, and Judge Haykel Ben Mahfoudh, determined that substantial grounds exist to believe that Kony is responsible for serious international crimes.

The Court found credible evidence of Kony’s involvement in war crimes and crimes against humanity committed between 1 July 2002 and 31 December 2005 in northern Uganda.

Background and Context

Joseph Kony, a Ugandan national, is the founder and leader of the Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA). During the period under review, a prolonged internal conflict took place in northern Uganda, notably across the Acholi, Lango, and Teso regions. The fighting involved the LRA on one side and the Uganda People’s Defence Force (UPDF) with allied local forces on the other.

Legal Implications

The confirmation of charges marks a significant step forward in international efforts to hold Kony accountable, even as he remains at large. The ICC’s decision reinforces the principle that grave violations of international law cannot go unanswered.

Author’s Summary: The ICC confirmed 39 charges against fugitive Joseph Kony for war crimes and crimes against humanity, though his trial awaits his capture.

more

| International Criminal Court | International Criminal Court — 2025-11-06

More News