Prosecutors begin case against fugitive Joseph Kony for war crimes

In The Hague, Netherlands, on September 9, 2025, the International Criminal Court (ICC) commenced a significant in absentia hearing against the fugitive Ugandan rebel leader Joseph Kony. Prosecutors are providing evidence regarding the serious charges of war crimes and crimes against humanity that have been attributed to Kony, actions that have caused long-lasting damage to Ugandan society over the past two decades. During this hearing, evidence is being presented to a panel of judges; however, it is important to note that this is not a trial, and Kony cannot be tried unless he is within the custody of the court. The ICC has faced challenges in bringing Kony to justice, with the rebel leader eluding capture despite extensive international efforts and a $5 million reward for information leading to his arrest. The charges against Kony stem from a long history of violence and human rights abuses committed by his group, the Lord's Resistance Army (LRA), which has left numerous victims still struggling with the repercussions of these acts. The hearing has drawn attention not only within Uganda but also internationally, highlighting the ongoing challenges of prosecuting war criminals who remain at large. This proceeding stands as a test case for the ICC, which may influence how the court handles other similar cases in the future. Experts such as Michael Scharf, an international law professor, point out that the proceedings could set important precedents as they prepare for cases where suspects might be difficult to detain, such as those involving high-profile leaders like Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Russian President Vladimir Putin. Despite the illegality of Kony's actions, some critics of the court's strategy question the decision to pursue charges against someone who remains on the run. They argue that it feels like a mockery of justice, emphasizing that true relief for victims would come from Kony's capture and subsequent trial. Meanwhile, in Uganda, the feelings of survivors reflect a complicated relationship with these proceedings; many welcome the effort to hold Kony accountable, expressing hope that his eventual capture would finally provide them with a sense of justice. As such, the ICC hearings continue to be closely monitored by the Ugandan public, who desire resolution for the traumas inflicted by Kony and the LRA. The proceedings have sparked discussions about the effectiveness of international law and the ability to enforce justice against elusive war criminals who have evaded capture for years.