Parliament Applauds as Uganda’s Justice Sebutinde Ascends to International Court of Justice Vice President
Lady Justice Julia Sebutinde’s election as Vice President of the International Court of Justice has been met with commendation from Uganda’s Parliament. Sebutinde’s achievement is seen as raising Uganda’s profile internationally.
The announcement of Lady Justice Julia Sebutinde’s election as Vice President of the International Court of Justice (ICJ) has been met with commendation from the Parliament.
In an official statement released by the ICJ in The Hague, Netherlands, on Tuesday, 06 February 2024, it was disclosed that Sebutinde had been elected by her peers for a three-year term.
Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa remarked that Justice Sebutinde’s accomplishment has elevated Uganda’s reputation on the global stage. He conveyed these felicitations during the plenary session on Wednesday, 07 February 2024.
“As another distinguished representative elevating our nation’s standing internationally, I extend, on behalf of Parliament, our heartfelt congratulations,” expressed Tayebwa.
He implored fellow legislators to uphold Justice Sebutinde in their prayers, urging her to administer justice impartially.
Sebutinde’s appointment follows her recent dissenting vote within the seven-judge panel, where she opposed six emergency measures related to South Africa’s genocide case against Israel.
Sarah Opendi, Tororo District Woman Member of Parliament and Chairperson of Uganda Women Parliamentary Association (UWOPA), also extended her congratulations to Lady Justice Sebutinde.
“I join in congratulating Justice Julia Sebutinde on this significant achievement. Attaining the position of Vice President of the International Court of Justice is indeed remarkable,” remarked Opendi.
Sebutinde has been serving as a member of the court since 06 February 2012. Prior to her tenure at the ICJ, she served as a judge at the Special Court for Sierra Leone from 2005 to 2011 and held the position of Judge at the High Court of Uganda from 1996 to 2011, presiding over both civil and criminal cases.
Established in June 1945 by the Charter of the United Nations, the International Court of Justice serves as the principal judicial body of the United Nations, commencing its operations in April 1946.
