Susan Kigula, the Woman Who Freed Herself from Death Row
When Susan Kigula was convicted and sentenced to death, no-one could have imagined that she would study law and free not only herself but hundreds of others from death row. Kigula, today an inspiring advocate for justice and human rights in Uganda, shares her remarkable story. (English / SG-Certificate*)
Time: 19:30-20:45 hrs.
Admission is free, registration required.
How one woman changed the Ugandan legal system
Susan Kigula, a Ugandan national born in 1977, faced an unjust death sentence in 2002, based on the testimony of a three-year-old child. While studying law and residing on death row, she fearlessly represented all 418 death row inmates in Uganda and challenged the state's legal system. In 2009, the Ugandan Supreme Court ruled that all death penalty cases should be reviewed, thanks to Susan's efforts. Ultimately, in 2016, Susan herself was released from prison.
Susan today
Today, Susan works as a lawyer and has founded the Sunny African Children's Center, an organization dedicated to providing care and protection for children of prisoners, as well as other vulnerable youth, such as street children and orphans. Her case had international implications, playing a pivotal role in the abolition of mandatory death sentences for murder in neighboring Kenya.
Beyond the individual story
The program will be moderated by Professor Mirjam van Reisen, an expert in international relations and innovation. Together, they will explore connections between Susan's journey and various aspects of the legal system, including the death penalty, the influence of corruption, the position of women, colonial history, and more.
This event is a unique opportunity for students and all individuals interested in justice, human rights, and social change to witness Susan's powerful speaking and engage in a meaningful dialogue. Attendees will have the chance to ask questions and gain valuable insights from Susan's perspective.
Don't miss this chance to hear Susan Kigula's incredible story of resilience, transformation and her ongoing work for a fairer legal system!
Contact
This program is organized by Studium Generale in cooperation with the African Student Association Tilburg and Students Tilburg Amnesty International.
Contact: Annelieke Koster (Studium Generale).
Picture © Jan Banning (Photographer).
* For students, this lecture may count towards the SG-Certificate. Check the SG-Certificate website for all the terms and conditions.
