In a landmark ruling, the Oxford Crown Court on Thursday, March 14, 2025, convicted Lydia Mugambe, a Ugandan High Court Judge and a United Nations criminal tribunal judge, of multiple offences related to modern slavery.
The charges include breaching UK immigration laws, facilitating travel for exploitation, forced labour, and conspiracy to intimidate a witness, RT reports.
Details of the Crime
According to prosecutors, Mugambe lured a young woman from Uganda to the United Kingdom under the false pretense of offering her a legitimate job. Upon arrival, the victim was forced to work without pay as a maid and provide childcare services.
Prosecutors further revealed that Mugambe confiscated the victim’s passport and visa, effectively restricting her freedom of movement and ability to seek help. The victim, whose identity remains protected, testified that she felt “lonely, isolated, and trapped” after arriving in the UK.
Caroline Haughey KC, the lead prosecutor, told the court that Mugambe had “systematically exploited and abused” the victim, knowing she lacked knowledge of her legal rights.
The court also heard evidence that Mugambe attempted to intimidate a witness connected to the case in an effort to obstruct justice.
Diplomatic Immunity Claim Rejected
In a video released by Thames Valley Police and shared on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), Mugambe was seen attempting to invoke diplomatic immunity. She argued that her status as a judge in Uganda and her position with the UN criminal tribunal should shield her from prosecution.
However, the United Nations formally waived any immunity she might have claimed, enabling the legal process in the United Kingdom to proceed without obstruction.
Legal Proceedings and Verdict
After a thorough trial that included testimony from the victim, expert witnesses, and law enforcement officials, the jury found Mugambe guilty on all counts. The Oxford Crown Court emphasized the severity of her crimes, particularly in light of her position of authority and the vulnerability of the victim.
Upcoming Sentencing
Lydia Mugambe is scheduled to be sentenced on May 2, 2025. Under UK modern slavery laws, offences related to human trafficking and forced labour carry severe penalties, with the maximum sentence being life imprisonment.
Legal experts suggest that the high-profile nature of this case, combined with Mugambe’s abuse of her judicial position, could lead to a significant custodial sentence.
Reactions and Implications
The conviction of a sitting UN judge has drawn international attention, raising concerns about abuse of power within global institutions. Human rights organizations have praised the UK authorities for holding Mugambe accountable, emphasizing the need for justice for victims of modern slavery.
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A spokesperson for the Thames Valley Police remarked:
“This verdict sends a clear message that no one, regardless of their position or influence, is above the law. Victims of exploitation will be heard, and perpetrators will face justice.”
Meanwhile, the Ugandan judiciary has not yet issued a formal statement, but there is speculation that Mugambe could face disciplinary proceedings in her home country following the UK conviction.
As the world awaits the May 2 sentencing, legal commentators stress the precedent-setting nature of the case and its impact on future prosecutions of international officials involved in human rights abuses.
