During the visit of the prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (ICC) Karim Khan, the governor of Ituri, Lieutenant-General Johnny Luboya N’kashama, sent a strong message to the various armed groups operating in his territory. He affirmed that any armed group that continued to commit abuses against the population would be prosecuted by national and international justice, thus putting an end to impunity and the violation of human rights.
The visit of prosecutor Karim Khan to Ituri was seen as a strong message sent to the executioners who thought they were free by committing crimes against the civilian population. The military governor of Ituri offered an opportunity for armed groups to dialogue, stop the violence and adhere to the program of disarmament, demobilization, community recovery and stabilization (P-DDRCS) to avoid being prosecuted by the justice.
However, for those who do not want to take this opportunity, the governor warned that military operations would resume shortly. Thus, anyone who continues to engage in acts contrary to law and human rights will be prosecuted and judged.
This statement offers hope to the people of Ituri, who have suffered for years of armed conflict. It is also a great step towards the establishment of the rule of law in this province, and it could perhaps serve as an example for the other provinces of the Democratic Republic of Congo.