Tue Sep 09 06:07:11 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a summary and news article based on the provided text:

**Summary:**

The International Criminal Court (ICC) is beginning its first-ever in absentia hearing for Joseph Kony, leader of the Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA), who faces charges of war crimes and crimes against humanity. Despite being wanted for two decades and the subject of international attention, Kony remains at large. The hearing is considered a “confirmation of charges” hearing, allowing prosecutors to present their case. The ICC’s move is seen as a test case for prosecuting individuals who are unlikely to be apprehended. The proceedings are met with mixed reactions, with some survivors welcoming the charges while others question the point of trying Kony without him being in custody.

**News Article:**

**ICC Opens Landmark In Absentia Hearing for Ugandan Rebel Leader Joseph Kony**

**The Hague, Netherlands – September 9, 2025** – The International Criminal Court (ICC) today commenced its first-ever hearing in absentia, targeting fugitive Ugandan rebel leader Joseph Kony. The proceedings mark a significant step for the court as it attempts to address alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity committed by the leader of the Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA), a brutal group notorious for child abductions, mutilation, and widespread violence in Uganda and neighboring countries.

Kony, who founded the LRA, faces 39 counts related to alleged atrocities committed in 2003 and 2004, including murder, sexual enslavement, rape, and the use of child soldiers. An arrest warrant was issued for him two decades ago, in 2005, but he remains at large despite international efforts to locate and apprehend him.

The ICC hearing is not a trial but serves as a “confirmation of charges” hearing, where prosecutors will present evidence to support the allegations against Kony. A defense lawyer will represent Kony in his absence. Following the presentation of evidence, ICC judges will determine whether the charges are substantiated enough to proceed.

The case is viewed as a critical test for the ICC, potentially setting a precedent for future cases where suspects are unlikely to be taken into custody. International law experts, like Michael Scharf of Case Western Reserve University, emphasize the precedent-setting nature of this case.

Reactions to the hearing have been mixed, particularly in Uganda, where the LRA committed some of its worst atrocities. While some survivors welcome the proceedings as a step towards accountability, others question the value of trying a man who remains beyond the reach of justice.

“He did many things bad,” said Odong Kajumba, a former LRA captive. If they can arrest Mr. Kony, he said, “I am very happy.”

Former Ugandan lawmaker Odonga Otto expressed skepticism. “Why do you want to try a man you can’t get? They should first get him. It’s a mockery.”

The LRA’s violence dates back to the 1980s, when Kony sought to overthrow the Ugandan government. After being pushed out of Uganda, the group terrorized regions in Congo, Central African Republic, and South Sudan. The group gained global notoriety with the 2012 viral video exposing their attrocities

Despite the challenges of prosecuting Kony in absentia, the ICC’s decision to move forward underscores its commitment to addressing serious international crimes, even in the face of logistical and political obstacles. The outcome of this hearing could have significant implications for future ICC cases and the pursuit of justice for victims of war crimes worldwide.

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