African judges worried over SA withdrawal from ICC

MARC NKWAME in Arusha

THE Africa Group for Justice and Accountability (AGJA), which has just concluded its symposium in Arusha, has expressed concern regarding South Africa’s decision to withdraw from the International Criminal Court (ICC).

A statement from the AGJA meeting here is to the effect that the continental justice panel has noted with deep concern the South African government’s declaration that it has given notice to the United Nations of its withdrawal from the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court (ICC).

“The AGJA adds its serious concern at the government’s announcement that it will seek the repeal of the Implementation of the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court Act,” reads part of the statement.

According to AGJA, South Africa is an indispensable ally of international justice and the ICC and played a leading role in the creation of the Court in The Hague and has been a key supporter of the institution since the ICC became a functioning reality in 2002.

“The South African government’s tradition of supporting human rights and as a leading voice on accountability would be undermined by a withdrawal from the ICC,” the AGJA release, maintained.

The Africa Group also urges that any space for reconsideration of withdrawal can and should be explored. It further calls on the Parliament to reject any repeal of the Implementation of the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court Act

. The Africa Group supports the work of all domestic legal groups in guaranteeing that any process of withdrawal is democratic, legitimate, and reflects the will and interest of the South African people.

The AGJA further implores African states, and civil society groups in the country to engage and work with South Africa, encouraging the government to retain its membership in the ICC and maintain its position as a leader in the global fight for justice and accountability.