DRC: ICC Pre-Trial Chamber confirms charges against Bosco Ntaganda
| Publisher | International Federation for Human Rights |
| Publication Date | 11 June 2014 |
| Cite as | International Federation for Human Rights, DRC: ICC Pre-Trial Chamber confirms charges against Bosco Ntaganda, 11 June 2014, available at: http://www.refworld.org/docid/53b12018b.html [accessed 23 December 2015] |
| Disclaimer | This is not a UNHCR publication. UNHCR is not responsible for, nor does it necessarily endorse, its content. Any views expressed are solely those of the author or publisher and do not necessarily reflect those of UNHCR, the United Nations or its Member States. |
11 June 2014
On Tuesday 9th June 2014 the Pre Trial Chamber II of the International Criminal Court (ICC) unanimously confirmed charges against former Congolese militia leader Bosco Ntganda, who will now face trial for war crimes and crimes against humanity he allegedly committed in the Ituri Province of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) in 2002 and 2003. FIDH welcomes this development in the proceedings, that enables victims of these crimes, and especially victims of crimes of sexual violence, to finally see their case discussed in court.
Ntganda has been charged with 18 counts of war crimes and crimes against humanity, including murder, rape, pillaging, sexual slavery and the enlistment of child soldiers. He is the former alleged Deputy Chief of Staff of the Patriotic Forces for the Liberation of Congo (FPLC), accused as responsible for two attacks carried out in the Ituri Province of the DRC in late 2002 and early 2003.
The first warrant for his arrest was issued in 2006 and unsealed in 2008, while a second arrest warrant was issued in 2012. He voluntarily surrendered himself to the ICC's custody on 22 March 2013, allegedly due to fears for his life. The Presidency of the ICC will constitute a Trial Chamber in due course.
For further information, see press release of FIDH-ASADHO-GL-LE of February 2014 published for the opening of Ntaganda's confirmation of charges hearing.
Last Update 11 June
