UGANDA

TJ MECHANISMS
Complementarity with Other Transitional Justice Mechanisms
In terms of the wider transitional justice agenda, traditional justice also complements
mechanisms like prosecution, reparations, reconciliation and truth-telling. Some
participants noted that many people desire prosecutions for perpetrators of violence,
and argued that traditional justice systems can offer an acceptable means for trying
such cases. 691 Others again noted the important contribution of traditional justice to the
reconciliation process because it allows for the acknowledgement of wrongdoing and
facilitates the return and reintegration of former fighters. 692 Participants also noted that
traditional practices like the use of abila shrines or cleansing ceremonies can facilitate
truth-telling and peace-making by involving the spirits of those wrongfully killed who are
currently disturbing survivors. 693
Practical Steps Forward
In order to make traditional justice systems more functional, participants recommended
several changes, including a more cooperative and supportive approach from the
Government toward traditional leaders and courts. 694 Some suggested that mechanisms
like mato oput would benefit from more funding. 695 Finally, several participants
emphasized passing on knowledge about traditional justice to younger generations,
either through incorporating such lessons in primary school curricula or by parents
transmitting these customs to their children. 696
Reparations
The Juba Agreement on Accountability and Reconciliation includes provisions on the
establishment of a reparations mechanism for victims of the conflict in northern Uganda.
It notes that such a mechanism shall be holistic and encompass measures ranging
from compensation, rehabilitation and restitution to guarantees of non-recurrence
and symbolic reparations. Both individual and collective forms of reparation are to be
granted, and they should be delivered not only through formal judicial processes, but
also through alternative mechanisms. Consultations and the prioritization of vulnerable
groups are identified as essential to the process. 697 Pursuant to the Implementation
Protocol to the Agreement on Comprehensive Solutions, the Government of Uganda is
responsible for the creation of a reparations policy that provides reparations for victims
and vulnerable persons. 698
691 Research conducted in Gulu and Bundibugyo Districts
692 Research conducted in Pader District
693 Research conducted in Kasese District
694 Research conducted in Adjumani District
695 Research conducted in Soroti, Pader, Gulu, Kitgum, Lira and Arua Districts
696 Research conducted in Gulu and Kitgum Districts
697 Research conducted in Soroti, Arua, Hoima, Tororo and Mukono Districts
698 Research conducted in Gulu District
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