Uganda Reaffirms Strong Support for ICC Amid Global Attacks on Justice

Uganda has once again pledged its commitment to international justice as Hon. Norbert Mao, Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, held a high-level meeting with Judge Tomoko Akane, President of the International Criminal Court (ICC), on the side-lines of the 24th Assembly of States Parties (ASP) at the World Forum in The Hague.

The engagement brought together senior judicial and diplomatic officials, including Uganda’s own Judge Salome Bbosa, currently serving at the ICC bench, and Ugandan envoys Amb. Mirjam Blaak, Amb. Duncan Muhumuza, and Amb. Beatrice Pacunega Manano. Their presence highlighted coordinated efforts between Uganda’s justice system and its diplomatic missions in advancing the country’s international obligations.

During the meeting, Minister Mao and Judge Akane discussed a wide range of issues affecting the Court, with particular focus on the recent wave of international attacks targeting the ICC—most notably the controversial sanctions imposed on several judges and officials.

Hon. Norbert Mao (L) shakes hands of Judge Tomoko Akane flanked by Judge Salome Bbosa

Mao expressed deep regret over these developments, reiterating Uganda’s strong support for the ICC and describing the institution as essential to preserving a rules-based international order founded on justice and human dignity.

Quoting a proverb, he remarked: “It is the water in the boat that causes a boat to sink, and not the waters outside the boat,” urging the Court to remain united and internally resilient in the face of external pressures.

Judge Akane welcomed Uganda’s steadfast backing, praising the country’s longstanding contributions to the Court’s mandate, even during periods of global scrutiny and political tension.

Hon. Mao also held separate discussions with Deputy Prosecutor Mame Mandiaye Niang, during which both sides reaffirmed the excellent relationship between Uganda and the ICC. Uganda, he noted, was the first country ever to refer a situation to the Court and remains an active member of the ICC Bureau—demonstrating its continued engagement in shaping the Court’s future.

Later, Minister Mao met with Dr. Deborah Ruiz Verduzco, Director of the ICC Trust Fund for Victims, for a detailed discussion on the implementation of the €52 million reparations award in the Dominic Ongwen case. Their meeting focused on resource mobilization and identifying effective modalities to ensure that the reparations process is both impactful and sustainable.

The 24th Assembly of States Parties, running from December 1–6 at the World Forum, continues to spotlight Uganda’s pivotal role in supporting the global justice framework. The ongoing deliberations reflect broader conversations about the challenges confronting the ICC—including funding constraints, political pressures, and increasing attacks on multilateral institutions.

As the ASP progresses, the continued engagement between States Parties and ICC organs underscores the collective resolve to defend international justice and uphold the rules-based order amid complex global dynamics.