The Vice President of the International Court of Justice (ICJ), Justice Julia Sebutinde, received a peace award for her role in a judgement concerning Israel’s war in Gaza, where many lives were and are still being lost.
The award was presented by a Ugandan civil society organization called Always Be Tolerant Organisation (ABETO).
Moses Musana, ABETO’s Chairperson, praised Justice Sebutinde’s impartial judgements, particularly in the case regarding the conflict in Gaza. He emphasized that Justice Sebutinde’s ruling reflected a fair assessment of the situation, acknowledging the complexities of the conflict.
Justice Sebutinde stands by her decision, despite the controversy surrounding her judgment, which sparked a social media uproar worldwide. Critics called her out for favoring Israel and failing to adequately address the clear genocide unfolding in Gaza. However, Justice Sebutinde remains steadfast in her belief that her ruling reflects a balanced assessment of the complexities of the conflict and upholds the principles of justice and fairness.
Represented by her husband, John Bagunywa Sebutinde, Justice Sebutinde was unable to attend the award ceremony. Mr. Bagunywa affirmed his wife’s unwavering commitment to justice and her recent verdict.
Justice Sebutinde was part of the ICJ panel that deliberated on Israel’s actions during the conflict with Hamas militants in Gaza. Her stance highlighted the need for a balanced approach to the conflict, acknowledging both sides’ perspectives.
As the first African woman to serve on the ICJ, Justice Sebutinde has a distinguished career. Before her tenure at the ICJ, she served as a judge at the Special Court for Sierra Leone. Her recent election as Vice President of ICJ underscores her commitment to global justice.
The ABETO Africa Peace Award recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to peace and development in their respective countries. Previous recipients include prominent figures such as Dr. Silver Mugisha, Ms. Mary Karooro Okurut, Mr. Patrick Ayota, Ms. Ziria Tibalwa Waako, Mr. Adonia Ayebare, and Ms. Margaret Sekaggya.
These individuals have been instrumental in fostering positive change and improving the quality of life for their fellow citizens. However, the inclusion of Julia Sebutinde on this list raises questions about her eligibility, given the controversy surrounding her judgment. Her ruling, which she is being hailed for, has contributed to negativity, particularly as Palestinians in Gaza continue to face illegal mass killings and displacement by Israel.
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