Fri Mar 14 02:50:00 UTC 2025: **High-Ranking Ugandan Judge Convicted of Modern Slavery in UK**
OXFORD, UK – A Ugandan High Court judge and United Nations judge, Lydia Mugambe, 49, has been found guilty of modern slavery charges in the UK. A jury at Oxford Crown Court convicted her on charges including forcing a young woman to work as a slave, conspiracy to facilitate a breach of UK immigration law, and witness intimidation. Mugambe, who was studying for a law PhD at Oxford University, will be sentenced on May 2nd.
The prosecution argued that Mugambe exploited her victim, preventing her from securing legitimate employment while forcing her to work as an unpaid maid and childcare provider. Prosecutors alleged a conspiracy with Ugandan Deputy High Commissioner John Leonard Mugerwa to facilitate the victim’s entry into the UK in exchange for Mugambe’s intervention in a legal matter involving Mugerwa.
During her arrest, Mugambe claimed diplomatic immunity, asserting her status as a UN judge and possessing a diplomatic passport. However, the UN waived any such immunity. The victim, who remains anonymous for legal reasons, testified about feeling trapped and isolated due to restricted working hours. Mugambe denied the charges, claiming she treated the victim with love and care. The court heard gasps from the public gallery upon the verdict, and the court was briefly adjourned after Mugambe appeared unwell. Thames Valley Police commended the investigation, highlighting Mugambe’s attempts to evade justice by invoking diplomatic immunity.
First Piper 