Can Private Prosecutors Deliver Justice for International Crimes in Uganda?
Timothy Amerit, the head of the Private Prosecutions Liaison and Coordination Unit at the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions in Uganda explains why fostering private prosecutions is important, highlighting various cases that have been pursued by private prosecutors in the recent past.
He goes on to discuss the work of his unit, including the support they provide to private prosecutors through legal guidance, skills development, and evidence gathering. He also outlines his efforts to revitalise private prosecutions in Uganda, which have historically been underutilised. In addition, he speaks about raising awareness among his public prosecutor colleagues to curb the often unnecessary practice of taking over privately prosecuted cases. Finally, he reflects on the viability of prosecuting international crimes through private prosecution in Uganda.
Mr. Amerit spoke with Wayamo’s International Criminal Lawyer & Project Coordinator Linda Bore on the sidelines of Wayamo’s engagement with Ugandan judges and prosecutors involved in the trial of international crimes. The meeting was held in Kampala, Uganda in November 2025.
Mr. Amerit highlights:
01:01 – The legal basis for private prosecutions in Uganda
02:31 – The practice of private prosecutions in Uganda
03:52 – The work of the Private Prosecutions Liaison and Coordination Unit
07:59 – Types of cases that have been tried by private prosecution in Uganda
09:27 – The viability of prosecuting international crimes through private prosecutions in Uganda
