Monday 23 May 2016

REMEMBERING THE LUKODI MASSACRE

 On 19th May 2016, residents of Lukodi village commemorated the 12th anniversary of the Lukodi Massacre. The prayers are held annually to remember the victims who lost their lives almost twelve years ago when LRA rebels raided Lukodi village.

Unlike previous celebrations, this one was different because Dominic Ongwen, the ex-LRA commander alleged to have led the attack against Lukodi is currently in the custody of the International Criminal Court (ICC). During these celebrations, the ICC representative present at the function also revealed that the trial of Dominic Ongwen may commence on 05 December 2016.

Another factor that made this particular anniversary of the Lukdoi massacre significant was that for the first time ever, the ceremony was graced by Rwot David Onen Acana II, the Acholi Paramount Chief. Also in attendance were representatives of the ICC from the office of the prosecutor and the victims’ participation and reparations section (VPRS). Victims’ legal representatives; Francisco Cox, Joseph Akwenyu Manoba and Jane Anywar Adong were also present. Members of civil society in northern Uganda, the media, traditional and religious leaders, and community members of Lukodi were also present at the function.

Representatives of the Foundation for Justice and Development Initiatives (FJDI) attended the ceremony and interacted with two survivors of the massacre.
Attached is a brief about how the day was commemorated. The report is also accessible from FJDI's website www.fjdi.org or using this download link: https://drive.google.com/open?id=0B8mSmNvPrstMaGRYMmhsYllZSTg

No comments:

Post a Comment