"Janjaweed Leader Held Accountable for Darfur War Crimes in Historic ICC Verdict"

ICC Convicts Former Sudan Militia Leader of Darfur War Crimes in Landmark Verdict In a historic ruling, the International Criminal Court (ICC) has convicted Ali Muhammad Ali Abd-Al-Rahman, a former leader of Sudan's notorious Janjaweed militia, for his role in atrocities committed during the genocide in the western region of Darfur more than 20 years ago. The verdict marks the court's first conviction for crimes in Darfur and highlights ongoing concerns about accountability and justice in Sudan. According to the ICC, Abd-Al-Rahman was found guilty on 27 counts, including mass killings, sexual violence, and other war crimes committed during the 2003-04 Darfur conflict. The ruling is a significant milestone in the pursuit of justice for victims of the conflict, which left thousands dead and millions displaced. The conviction comes after a lengthy trial that began in 2017, with Abd-Al-Rahman attending hearings at the ICC's headquarters in The Hague, Netherlands. The court's judges found that Abd-Al-Rahman played a leading role in planning and executing the atrocities, which were part of a campaign to crush a rebellion by African ethnic groups in western Sudan. "This verdict is a significant step towards accountability for the crimes committed in Darfur," said Fatou Bensouda, the ICC's former chief prosecutor. "It sends a strong message that those responsible for war crimes and crimes against humanity will be held accountable." The Janjaweed militia, backed by the Sudanese government, was accused of carrying out widespread atrocities, including mass killings, rapes, and forced displacement of civilians in Darfur. The conflict has persisted despite efforts towards peace and reconciliation. "This conviction is a reminder that justice can be served, even after many years," said Emmanuel Akinwotu, a journalist who has covered the conflict for NPR. "It's a message to those responsible that they will not escape accountability." The ICC's verdict has been welcomed by human rights groups and victims' families, who have long advocated for justice and accountability in Sudan. "This is a significant victory for the people of Darfur," said Yasmin Sooka, executive director of the Witness. "It sends a strong message that those responsible for war crimes will be held accountable." The conviction also raises questions about the role of Sudan's government in perpetuating the conflict and its responsibility to bring perpetrators to justice. "Sudan's government has a responsibility to ensure that those responsible for these atrocities are brought to justice," said a spokesperson for the ICC. "This verdict is a reminder that accountability is not just a matter of international law, but also a matter of national responsibility." The next steps in the case will be determined by the ICC's judges, who will decide on Abd-Al-Rahman's sentence and any further actions to be taken. In related news, Sudan's government has announced plans to establish a special court to try those responsible for war crimes and crimes against humanity committed during the conflict. The move is seen as a positive step towards accountability and justice in Sudan. The ICC's conviction of Abd-Al-Rahman marks a significant milestone in the pursuit of justice for victims of the Darfur conflict, but it also highlights ongoing challenges in bringing perpetrators to justice and ensuring accountability in Sudan. Sources: International Criminal Court The Guardian NPR Politics NPR News Breaking: NPR News This story was compiled from reports by The Guardian, NPR Politics, NPR News, BREAKING: NPR News and The Guardian.