Summary
The International Criminal Court (ICC) is holding a hearing to confirm war crimes charges against Joseph Kony, a Ugandan rebel leader who has evaded arrest for 20 years. Kony, leader of the Lord's Resistance Army (LRA), faces 39 charges, including murder and using child soldiers, but is not present at the hearing. The case is significant as the ICC proceeds without Kony in custody, which could set a new precedent for handling fugitives.
Key Facts
- The ICC has opened a war crimes case against Joseph Kony, who is not present at the hearing.
- Joseph Kony leads the Lord's Resistance Army (LRA) and faces 39 charges of war crimes and crimes against humanity.
- Crimes include murder, sexual enslavement, and the use of child soldiers.
- Kony's group became infamous for violent acts like cutting off limbs.
- An arrest warrant for Kony was issued 20 years ago, but he remains a fugitive.
- The hearing is the ICC's first attempt to confirm charges without the suspect in custody.
- A trial can only start if Kony is arrested and present in court.
- The case could affect how the ICC deals with other international fugitives.
