Gulu, Uganda | The International Crimes Division of the High Court (ICD) has sentenced former Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA) commander Thomas Kwoyelo to 40 years in prison for war crimes and crimes against humanity. The sentencing took place on Friday at Gulu High Court.
Kwoyelo was convicted in August of 44 counts, including murder, torture, rape, pillaging, and kidnapping, committed between March 1993 and June 2005 in Kilak County, particularly in Lamogi and Pabbo Sub-counties of Amuru district. After accounting for 15 years already served in custody since his arrest in 2009, he will serve 25 years of the sentence.
Justice Michael Elubu stated that the 40-year sentence accurately reflects the severity of Kwoyelo's crimes. He noted that while the court considered requests for life imprisonment, it opted for a lengthy term instead, recognizing the time Kwoyelo has already spent in remand and the goals of transitional justice, including reconciliation as outlined in the amnesty act.
Justice Duncan Gaswaga emphasized the extreme brutality and cruelty of Kwoyelo's actions, which left victims with lasting physical and psychological scars. However, he acknowledged mitigating factors such as Kwoyelo's age at conscription into the LRA and his expressed remorse.
Kwoyelo’s defense team plans to appeal the sentencing, arguing that certain aspects do not serve justice adequately. Lawyer Evans Ocheing stated they identified flaws in the sentencing that require clarification.
Victim counsel welcomed the verdict, stating that it represents a significant step toward justice for those who have suffered due to the LRA’s actions. The court has also decided to hold separate proceedings for reparations claims, with a formal application expected by November 8.
Kwoyelo is noted as the first mid-level LRA commander to be convicted by a domestic court in connection with the long-standing conflict in Northern Uganda.
