A United Nations judge, Lydia Mugambe, broke down in tears while testifying at Oxford Crown Court on Thursday as she denied allegations of human trafficking and forced labor. The 49-year-old Ugandan High Court judge and former Oxford University PhD student is accused of exploiting a young Ugandan woman by bringing her to the UK under false pretenses and compelling her to work as her domestic servant. Facing four serious charges, including facilitating illegal immigration and witness intimidation, Mugambe maintained her innocence, insisting she had never sought to exploit the woman.
During cross-examination, Mugambe became visibly emotional, clutching tissues as she rejected claims that she had taken advantage of her legal status to control the alleged victim. “I’m sorry, but it’s too much,” she lamented, arguing that her distinguished career was built on integrity. Her defense counsel, Paul Raudnitz KC, pressed her on whether she had ever coerced the woman or threatened her with consequences for refusing to work. “No,” she replied firmly, reiterating that she had never engaged in exploitation, either in Uganda or the UK.
The prosecution, led by Caroline Haughey KC, accused Mugambe of deliberately misleading authorities when first questioned by the police. Under scrutiny for initially providing false information, the judge admitted to “misrepresentations” but denied any intent to deceive. Haughey, however, dismissed her explanation, stating, “Misrepresentations are not flexible facts; they are deliberate untruths,” asserting that Mugambe had been shielding herself rather than others.
Mugambe also denied allegations of attempting to intimidate the alleged victim to prevent her from testifying. “I would never do that,” she insisted, countering prosecution claims that she had conspired to suppress evidence. The case hinges on whether the court finds her explanations credible or determines that she abused her authority to manipulate the young woman into servitude.
As the high-profile trial continues, the case raises critical questions about power, legal ethics, and human rights. If convicted, Mugambe could face significant legal repercussions, marking a dramatic fall from grace for the esteemed legal professional. The proceedings remain ongoing as the court examines the evidence against her.
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