Empowering Prosecutors: ODPP launches pioneering Counter-Terrorism Training to bolster national security

The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP), in accordance with its strategic agenda of advancing the fight against terrorism, has organized a two-week pilot training for prosecutors aimed at equipping them with the specialized knowledge, skills, and expertise required to effectively investigate, prepare, and present compelling cases in court.

Speaking at the Prosecution Training Institute, during the launch of the Counter-Terrorism Module and pilot training program for prosecutors, the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Renson Ingonga, CBS, OGW noted that the threat of terrorism, terrorism financing, violent extremism, and radicalization continues to pose significant risks to national security, stability, and rule of law in the region.

He added that effective fight against terrorism necessitates a comprehensive, multi-agency, and whole-of-government approach with prosecution playing a pivotal role in ensuring justice is served and perpetrators are held accountable.

The DPP urged the participants to engage actively during this training, embrace new knowledge, and strive for excellence in their professional endeavours. He asked them to uphold the values of integrity, independence, transparency, accountability, professionalism, and team spirit in their prosecution, as outlined in the recently launched ODPP Strategic Plan 2023-2027.

The module provides an innovative and effective mechanism to equip prosecutors with the necessary tools they need to prosecute terrorism and terrorism financing-related crimes in modern times. This initiative is a significant milestone for the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions and the entire East African region, as it is the first of its kind.

In attendance were Acting Secretary Public Prosecutions, Mr. Alloys Kemo and Acting Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions at the Department of County Affairs and Regulatory Prosecutions and ODPP Head of Counter Terrorism and Transnational Organized Crime Division, Mr. Michael Sang.

The DPP expressed gratitude to international partner, the British High Commission for their time, dedication, and support in making the module a success.