During a sermon at Watoto Church in Uganda on August 10, Sebutinde reportedly declared that she opposed the ICJ’s ruling because she believed “God was counting on [her] to stand on the side of Israel,” describing the situation as part of the “end times.”

MPAC submitted petition to the ICJ to demand her removal on the basis that such statements undermine the credibility and independence of the Court, violating Articles 2 and 20 of the ICJ Statute, which require judges to act impartially and independently of personal convictions.

The ICJ’s judgments must remain grounded solely in international law, objective evidence, and universally recognized legal principles—not in personal or religious convictions. Allowing otherwise risks eroding public trust in the Court and weakening its moral and legal authority at a time when its role is most critical.

MPAC emphasized to the ICJ that the Israel-Palestine case touches on issues of genocide, occupation, and fundamental human rights, making impartiality indispensable. Such a declaration raises grave concerns about impartiality, judicial independence, and the integrity of the Court’s work. It undermines the ICJ’s standing as the highest guardian of international law and justice. We therefore urged the Court to immediately remove Judge Sebutinde from all related cases and reaffirm its commitment to fairness and judicial independence.

Judges must rule by law, not prophecy.

We call on the ICJ to act now.