Reaction to ICC action on Darfur

Feb 27, 2007 (LONDON) — Following are reactions to the International Criminal Court prosecution filing on two suspects — a former Sudanese state interior minister and a militia leader — wanted for war crimes in Darfur.

GERALDINE MATTIOLI OF HUMAN RIGHTS WATCH

“The figures identified are important ones. It is an important first step that could contribute to ending impunity for crimes in Darfur. But we want to see more. The prosecutor should go high up in the echelons of power and in the military.”

ALISON SMITH OF BRUSSELS-BASED NO PEACE WITHOUT JUSTICE

“We are very happy this is taking place. We think the broad range of charges reflects the experience of the victims in Darfur. We are obviously looking forward to further investigations and prosecutions.”

“It is a good opportunity for Sudan to prove they are cooperating with the ICC.”

“I think the peace process will be influenced in a positive way, I don’t see it as an impediment to the peace process. In the long term, justice is a necessary component for a lasting peace.”

SALLY CHIN, SUDAN ANALYST FOR INTERNATIONAL CRISIS GROUP

“This is the first time the ICC has sought to prosecute a senior minister in any government, and it shows that the ICC considers the government involved in the atrocities in Darfur at a senior level.”

“I think it is going to take a lot of pressure for Sudan to comply, however. Sudan has not signed the Rome treaty. So this matter might have to go the Security Council. Sudan is a member of the United Nations, so it would have to answer to the Security Council.”

“I think there is a definite logic in terms of these two they have chosen as the first ones. Haroun was very much there in terms of the planning, and Kushayb in terms of implementation.”

(Reuters)