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Message: [QUOTE="Munyaradzi Mafaro, post: 31893, member: 636"] The ICC Appeals Court said no to Dominic Ongwen when he tried to change his payment for war crimes. Judge Solomy Balungi Bossa read this decision on Monday during an open court meeting. Mr. Ongwen watched from far away through video, just like some lawyers who speak for victims. The court found good reasons to keep the victims' names secret because these people might face danger if their names became public. This did not hurt Mr. Ongwen's right to review their cases. The judges also agreed that asking people to pay twice made no sense. They explained that money from Ugandan courts differs completely from what ICC orders. Mr. Ongwen failed to show how traditional Acholi ways should become part of ICC rules or change how much he must pay. The court threw out many claims because earlier judges had already rejected these same arguments about his guilt and punishment. All these appeals failed to convince the higher court. Last February, ICC judges set Mr. Ongwen's bill at fifty-two million, four hundred twenty-nine thousand euros. This money goes toward helping communities heal together rather than each person alone. Every qualified victim receives seven hundred fifty euros as compensation. The rest builds programs for entire groups hurt by violence. The court wants these efforts to repair damage and show respect toward those who suffered. The case includes forty-two thousand seven hundred seventy-two registered victims. This large number shows how many lives were changed forever because of these crimes. Money can never undo past harm, but help communities start healing together. The programs focus on teaching new skills, providing health care, and supporting people as they rebuild their lives. Special events and monuments will honor what happened without forgetting. Mr. Ongwen led fighters who attacked villages across northern Uganda years ago. His forces kidnapped children, forced marriages, and caused terrible suffering. Many survivors lost homes, family members, peaceful childhoods, and chances for normal lives. The court listened carefully to both sides before making this final decision. ICC judges hope their choice brings some peace to communities after years of waiting for justice. [/QUOTE]

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