https://www.fairplanet.org/editors-pick/what-the-conviction-of-‘the-terminator’-means-for-icc-and-congo/

Editors' Picks

11.Nov

fatou-bensouda-icc-prosecutor-left-and-james-stewart-icc-deputy-prosecutor

November 11, 2019

What the conviction of ‘The Terminator’ means for ICC and Congo

topic:	Rule of Law
located:	Democratic Republic of the Congo
editor:	Bob Koigi

In a historic ruling recently delivered by the judges of the International Criminal Court, ICC, former Congolese rebel leader Bosco Ntaganda became the first person to be convicted of sexual slavery and the fourth person to be jailed by the court since it was established in 2002.

The indefatigable rebel chief who received a 30-year imprisonment term, the heaviest sanction to have been imposed in the history of the court, is synonymous with terror and war crimes that earned him the moniker ‘The terminator’.

Between 2002 and 2003, in the mineral-rich but volatile Ituri region of the Democratic Republic of Congo, Mr. Ntaganda led his fighters in visiting untold terror, massacre and suffering of ordinary citizens. In one instance, the rebels rounded up villagers in a banana field where some 49 people, including children, were disembowelled and had their heads smashed. ICC judge Robert Fremr highlighted a case of a 13 year old rape victim who had to undergo years of surgery and developed lifelong fear that saw her drop out of school. Ntaganda was also fond of recruiting children as young as 15 years as soldiers.

As the victims of these atrocities celebrate this victory and try to find closure in the conviction, it is worth reflecting on the numerous high profile cases that remain unsolved or have collapsed due to a lack of evidence at the apex court, including that of Ivorian former leader Laurent Gbagbo.

There are arguments that have been advanced that ICC is far and out of touch with the victims, which complicates the delivery of justice. Certain quarters advocate for a local justice system with investigators and courts to expedite the process and allow the victims to face their oppressors, fostering healing.

The mass withdrawal by African countries who feel the court was set up to target them and the dwindling financial support equally calls for a model rethink. But even with all these hiccups, the court still remains the ultimate haven for millions of ordinary people seeking justice and protection. It must remain true to that expectation.

Image: ICC

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