Prosecutors at the International Criminal Court have launched a significant legal battle against key figures from the anti-Balaka militia, targeting Patrice-Edouard Ngaïssona and Alfred Yekatom, both accused of horrific war crimes committed during the 2013-2014 conflict in the Central African Republic.
The ICC’s actions reflect its growing commitment to addressing the long-standing violence and lawlessness dominating the region.
This trial marks not only a pivotal moment for justice but also serves as the first of its kind for the anti-Balaka militia, shedding light on the brutal conflicts stemming from the group’s violent campaigns against Muslim civilians, particularly during the turbulent years following the Seleka rebellion.
Prosecutors have presented evidence aimed at demonstrating Ngaïssona and Yekatom’s direct involvement in orchestrated attacks, torture, and murders against civilians, fuelling fears of targeted violence throughout the war.
Ngaïssona, who once served as the president of the national football federation, has consistently claimed he is not guilty of the charges. Similarly, Yekatom also denies the accusations.
