Alexander Afriyie
A Ugandan and United Nations judge, Lydia Mugambe, 50, has been sentenced to six years and four months in prison for forcing a young woman to work without pay in the UK. Mugambe, a judge of Uganda’s High Court since 2013 and a UN judge since 2023, was found guilty of four offenses, including two charges under Britain’s Modern Slavery Act.
The Case.
Mugambe tricked a young Ugandan woman into coming to Britain in 2022, promising her a better life. Instead, she was forced to work as a maid without payment while Mugambe studied at the University of Oxford. The victim was subjected to modern slavery, and Mugambe’s actions were described as “appalling” by the court.
The Sentence.
Oxford Crown Court sentenced Mugambe to six years and four months in prison, reflecting the severity of her crimes. The judge’s conviction and sentencing serve as a reminder that modern slavery can take many forms and that those in positions of power will be held accountable for their actions.
Implications.
Mugambe’s case raises questions about the accountability of public officials and the need for greater scrutiny of those in positions of power. The conviction also highlights the importance of protecting vulnerable individuals from exploitation and modern slavery.