By Sekaggya Seka Moses
A Ugandan High Court judge, Lydia Mugambe, is set to be sentenced this Friday in a London court after being found guilty of exploiting a young woman she had sponsored to work as a domestic helper while pursuing a law doctorate at the University of Oxford.
According to prosecutors, Mugambe abused her authority by preventing the victim from seeking paid employment, forcing her to work unpaid as a domestic helper and childcare provider.
The victim, who had been helped by Mugambe to escape poverty in Kampala and reach the UK, alleged that she suffered isolation and emotional distress due to restrictions on her freedom.
The victim claimed that Mugambe had promised to change her life but instead subjected her to exploitation, prohibiting her from touring the city, making friends, or taking up a second job.
The victim eventually sought legal advice from someone she met in secret, leading to Mugambe’s prosecution.
The case highlights concerns about human exploitation and abuse of authority, particularly in situations where vulnerable individuals are dependent on their exploiters for support and protection.
Mugambe’s sentencing will likely draw attention to the issue of exploitation and the need for greater protections for vulnerable individuals.
The outcome of this case may also raise questions about Mugambe’s position as a High Court judge in Uganda and her ability to uphold the law and protect the rights of citizens.
