Intensive, joint training course for counter-terrorism investigators and prosecutors in Uganda

The European Union (EU) – United Nations (UN) Global Terrorism Threats Facility concluded a two-week intensive training course for the Uganda Police Force’s (UPF) and Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) on 24 May. The course was organized by the United Nations Office of Counter-Terrorism (UNOCT) together with the International Institute for Justice and the Rule of Law (IIJ) and funded by the EU.
 
The training contributed to strengthen the skills and collaboration among twenty mid-level counter-terrorism investigators and prosecutors to pursue criminal justice approaches within a rule of law and human rights framework, in line with recommendations from the United Nations Counter-Terrorism Committee Executive Directorate.  

Opening the training, Mr. Twarihukwa Erasmus, Director of the Human Rights and Legal Services of the Uganda Police Force, stressed that “this training [...] fosters the implementation of the efficient case management procedures to reduce trial delays, to enhance knowledge of international good practices for the effective investigation, prosecution, and adjudication of terrorism matters”. 

The course provided training sequences and practical exercises on a number of topics, including the proper use of special investigation techniques; accurately presenting evidence and legal arguments; efficiently managing cases to reduce trial delays; and seeking international cooperation for evidence collection, mutual legal assistance, and the extradition of suspected offenders. 

Reflecting on the knowledge and skills gained through the training, a counter-terrorism investigator said, “if we adopt international good practices and apply them well, we will greatly improve on our performance in the investigation and prosecution of terrorism cases”. A participating prosecutor added that coordination “improves trust among ourselves and helps fill gaps in the justice system through formal and informal communication and effective cooperation in the handling of cases”. 

Closing the training course, Hon. Lady Justice Jane Frances Abodo, Director of public prosecution, underscored that “coordination is key. It should be like a chain link. When a chain link is broken, it is the end”. 

Mr. Guillaume Chartrain, Deputy Head of the EU Delegation to Uganda said “The EU’s partnership with Uganda on Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism and Counter-Terrorism is robust and multifaceted. We are dedicated to supporting Uganda in strengthening its capacity to address terrorism through comprehensive and sustainable measures”.