The ICC prosecutor, Karim Khan, highlighted serious allegations of crimes against civilians in the DRC, particularly in North Kivu, where violence from M23 rebels has escalated. The ICC is committed to holding accountable not only M23 but also other armed groups involved. Khan emphasized the need for rule of law in conflict zones and affirmed the court’s jurisdiction to address violations regardless of the perpetrator’s nationality. He faces external pressures from both the U.S. and Russia while seeking justice.
The prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (ICC), Karim Khan, recently declared the allegations of crimes against civilians in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) as “extremely serious.” Since reopening an investigation into incidents in North Kivu, where fighting between the M23 rebels and the Congolese army has escalated, Khan has expressed a commitment to addressing the impunity associated with these crimes, particularly in a conflict that has persisted since the 1990s.
The ongoing violence in eastern DRC has led to approximately 7,000 fatalities since a resurgence of M23 activity began in January. Khan emphasized that the evidence suggests Rome Statute crimes are being committed in the region. “It does appear that Rome statute crimes have been and are being committed in the east of the DRC,” Khan stated.
Khan also pointed out that the allegations extend beyond the M23 rebels, noting that other armed groups, such as the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF), are implicated. He highlighted the urgency of holding different warlords accountable for their actions against civilians, stating the ICC’s mission is to ensure justice is served.
Internationally, Rwandan President Paul Kagame faces accusations of supporting the M23 and deploying Rwandan troops into Congo. When asked about potential leverage against Kagame, Khan refrained from disclosing specifics but affirmed the ICC’s jurisdiction over crimes committed in the DRC, regardless of the perpetrators’ nationalities.
Khan affirmed the ICC’s commitment to enforcing the law amidst rising chaos, asserting that people must recognize that even in conflict, legal boundaries must not be disregarded. He warned against allowing a “Wild West” mentality to dominate in conflict zones, emphasizing that the relevance of law should extend beyond legal professionals.
Additionally, Khan faces a complex situation as he is simultaneously targeted by an arrest warrant from Russia and sanctions from the United States. Despite these challenges, he remains focused on the ICC’s duties, asserting, “We are trying to do our job, and we’ll keep on trying to endeavor to apply the law despite the inclement weather that we experience at the moment.”
In summary, the International Criminal Court prosecutor, Karim Khan, has underscored the gravity of allegations concerning civilian crimes in the DRC, particularly amid a resurgence of violence from the M23 rebels. With a focus on accountability for all armed groups involved, Khan emphasizes the ICC’s commitment to enforcing international law and combating impunity despite facing significant external pressures. The situation remains critical as international entities observe developments in the region.
Original Source: www.france24.com
