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Top LRA Commander’s Transfer to ICC “Historic”, “Victory for Victims” says Enough Project

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Top LRA Commander’s Transfer to ICC “Historic”, “Victory for Victims” says Enough Project

Posted by Enough Team on January 13, 2015

January 13, 2015 — Dominic Ongwen, one of the most senior commanders of the Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA), will be transferred to the International Criminal Court (ICC), according to the U.S. State Department. Enough Project analysts are available for interviews, background on Ongwen, and expert commentary on the LRA and significance of the ICC referral in this case.

Kasper Agger, Enough Project LRA expert and Uganda-based field researcher, said: “The transfer of Dominic Ongwen to the ICC is a major victory for the thousands of LRA victims and a chance for Ongwen to go through a fair trial. Hopefully this can draw attention to massive rebuilding tasks in LRA affected areas, including the need for a comprehensive reconciliation and transitional justice process in Northern Uganda.”

Holly Dranginis, Enough Project Policy Analyst, said: “Ongwen’s transfer to the ICC is  historic – a victory for the victims of the LRA’s brutality, many of whom have been bravely demanding justice for over a decade now. It’s also a welcome confirmation that the United States is increasingly supportive of the ICC’s efforts in this region. The next step is for Ongwen to have a fair and thorough trial, with full consideration of crimes committed against him as a child, and robust protection for victims and witnesses.”

Abducted by the LRA at the age of 10, Ongwen rose in the ranks of the militia as a protégé of LRA leader Joseph Kony, and has been indicted by the ICC for multiple crimes against humanity including murder, pillaging, and enslavement.

More information:

For media inquiries or interview requests, please contact: Greg Hittelman,  +1 310-717-0606, [email protected]

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The Enough Project is a project of the Center for American Progress aiming to end genocide and crimes against humanity. Founded in 2007, Enough focuses on the crises in Sudan, South Sudan, eastern Congo, Central African Republic, and areas affected by the Lord’s Resistance Army. Enough conducts intensive field research, develops practical policies to address these crises, and shares sensible tools to empower citizens and groups working for change. To learn more: www.enoughproject.org.