ICC Prosecutor: Those responsible for violence in the Democratic Republic of the Congo must face justice
THE HAGUE, Netherland, December 6, 2011/African Press Organization (APO)/ — ICC Prosecutor: Those responsible for violence in the Democratic Republic of the Congo must face justice
“As the election process in the Democratic Republic of the Congo unfolds, let me reiterate what I already stated on November 11: we are closely watching the situation on the ground, and recourse to violence will not be accepted.
We continue to receive multiple reports of violent attacks against civilians, of fighting between rival factions, as well as attacks by armed groups and the national security forces.
We are urgently requesting information from the DRC authorities on the allegations that security forces fired at demonstrators. We welcome and are closely following the initiatives taken by national authorities to investigate and prosecute those responsible for such attacks against the civilian population.
I am also aware of reports of violence by armed groups apparently associated with different political parties, politicians and party officials against demonstrators from opposing parties.
Leaders from all sides must understand this: my Office is watching the situation in the DRC very closely. As we have shown in both Kenya and Cote d’Ivoire, planning and executing attacks on civilians for electoral gain will not be tolerated. This Court can investigate and prosecute you if you are responsible for committing ICC crimes, irrespective of position, and irrespective of political affiliation.
“I urge leaders, commanders, and politicians on all sides to calm your supporters. Electoral violence is no longer a ticket to power, I assure you. It is a ticket to The Hague”
SOURCE
International Criminal Court (ICC)
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