Karim Khan, ICC prosecutor, arrived in DRC amidst increasing violence from the M23 group, which recently captured two cities in the east. He stressed the need for adherence to international humanitarian law and has scheduled meetings with key officials. A new investigation into recent crimes in North Kivu is underway, reflecting the ICC’s ongoing commitment to accountability.
Karim Khan, the prosecutor for the International Criminal Court (ICC), has arrived in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) amid escalating violence in the eastern region. The Rwanda-supported M23 group has captured two significant cities recently, strengthening its position after resuming its insurgency in late 2021. Khan expressed grave concern over the recent developments, particularly in eastern DRC, indicating an urgent humanitarian crisis.
On his arrival in Kinshasa, Khan emphasized that armed groups must adhere to international humanitarian law, stating, “There must be no blank cheque for any armed group, any armed forces, or their allies.” He pointed out that the application of international humanitarian law is crucial at this juncture, highlighting that individuals in DRC deserve protection and rights just as much as people in conflict zones globally, such as Ukraine or Afghanistan.
Khan’s upcoming meetings include discussions with DRC President Felix Tshisekedi and various stakeholders, including civil society groups and victims of the ongoing conflict. The ICC’s first investigation, initiated in 2002, focused on crimes in DRC, and the court has since convicted three individuals for offenses in the region. A new investigation, launched in 2023, targets alleged crimes in North Kivu province from January 2022.
His office, which last visited DRC in May 2023, has reiterated that the current violence in eastern DRC forms part of their ongoing investigation into the situation. This visit underscores the ICC’s dedication to accountability for human rights violations in the region.
Karim Khan’s visit to the DRC highlights the ICC’s ongoing commitment to investigating human rights violations amid a humanitarian crisis driven by conflict. The prosecutor’s statements emphasize the need for compliance with international law by armed groups. With continued support for the M23 noted, the international community faces a critical moment in ensuring justice and protection for those affected by violence in the DRC.
Original Source: www.voanews.com
