Who is Thomas Kwoyelo, Ugandan LRA rebel commander on trial for war crimes?
Al JazeeraAUG 2024
Uganda: Ex-LRA Commander Gets 40-Year Sentence for War Crimes
Above: Thomas Kwoyelo in Kampala, Uganda on March 14, 2017. Image copyright: Lubowa Abubaker/Contributor/Anadolu Agency/Getty Images
The Spin
Narrative A
Kwoyelo's conviction represents a significant step towards justice for the victims of the LRA's brutal insurgency. It demonstrates Uganda's commitment to holding war criminals accountable — even those who were once child soldiers themselves. This trial sets a precedent for future cases and sends a strong message that atrocities will not go unpunished.
Narrative B
Kwoyelo's trial raises complex ethical questions about accountability in cases involving former child soldiers. In addition, the long delay in bringing Kwoyelo to trial and the selective prosecution of LRA members while sparing some Ugandan military commanders accused of abuses highlight potential inconsistencies in the pursuit of justice.