ICC Secures First Darfur War Crimes Conviction Against Former Janjaweed Leader
ICC Secures First Darfur War Crimes Conviction Against Former Janjaweed Leader
The International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague has delivered a landmark judgment, convicting Ali Muhammad Ali Abd–Al-Rahman, a former leader of Sudan’s notorious Janjaweed militia, for his pivotal role in atrocities committed during the Darfur genocide. This represents the ICC’s inaugural conviction for crimes perpetrated in the western Sudanese region, a significant step as similar violence tragically resurfaces amidst the nation’s ongoing civil war.
Judges found Abd–Al-Rahman, also known as Ali Kushayb, guilty on 27 counts, including mass killings and sexual violence. These acts were determined to be part of a systematic plan, backed by Sudan’s former government, aimed at crushing a rebellion by African ethnic groups. The crimes specifically occurred between August 2003 and April 2004. Presiding judge Joanna Korner highlighted Abd–Al-Rahman’s direct involvement, stating, “The accused was not only giving orders… but was personally involved in the beatings and later was physically present and giving orders for the execution of those detained.”
Abd–Al-Rahman, born in 1949, will face sentencing at a later date, with a maximum penalty of life in prison. He had fled to the Central African Republic in February 2020 before voluntarily surrendering to the ICC, reportedly out of desperation and fear for his life. While this conviction marks a crucial advancement in international justice, several arrest warrants remain outstanding against other Sudanese officials, including former President Omar al-Bashir, who denies charges of genocide.
The Janjaweed militia, which Abd–Al-Rahman commanded, later evolved into the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). The RSF is currently embroiled in a brutal conflict with the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and stands accused by international bodies of committing another genocide in Darfur, leading to widespread displacement, famine, and a deepening humanitarian catastrophe. This conviction underscores the enduring global quest for accountability for crimes against humanity in Darfur’s troubled history and present.
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