By Aggrey Baba
In the world of justice, where the gavel falls to uphold fairness, sometimes the very hands that wield it find themselves in the dock. Such is the case of Ugandan High Court Judge Lydia Mugambe, who was convicted last Thursday by a British court on charges of modern slavery and forced labor.
The ruling has sparked debate, with some seeing her as a criminal while others argue she was caught in a web of manipulation.
The Ugandan government has pledged support to Mugambe, with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs stating that she has been provided with all necessary legal assistance. Vincent Bagiire, the ministry’s permanent secretary, emphasized that while the matter is criminal in nature, they will assess what steps to take as she awaits sentencing on May 2, 2025.
“Government has stood by her throughout this process, ensuring she has legal representation. However, we must respect judicial procedures,” Bagiire stated.
Mugambe, 49, who earned a doctorate from Oxford University, was convicted of facilitating illegal travel to the UK, exploiting an individual for unpaid labor, and conspiring to intimidate a witness. However, some believe the case may be more complex than it appears.
At the heart of the matter is a young domestic worker, identified only as Aidah, who had reportedly been with Mugambe’s family for years. Sources claim she was a relative whom the judge had supported financially in Uganda. However, after arriving in the UK, Aidah is said to have connected with individuals who allegedly influenced her to report the case, possibly as a means of securing legal residency.
Under UK law, victims of trafficking or exploitation can receive protection from deportation. This raises questions about whether the accusations stem from genuine mistreatment or were part of an attempt to change immigration status.
A family member of Mugambe questioned the claims, stating, “How can someone who had freedom of movement, access to communication, and full mobility be considered enslaved? If she was truly mistreated, why did she remain in employment for so long before raising concerns?”
Despite these lingering questions, the British jury at Oxford Crown Court found Mugambe guilty. As the sentencing date approaches, the debate continues, on whether was Justice Mugambe a perpetrator of modern slavery, or she was, too, a victim of manipulation. (For comments on this story, get back to us on 0705579994 [WhatsApp line], 0779411734 & 041 4674611 or email us at mulengeranews@gmail.com).
