Kinshasa – International Criminal Court (ICC) Prosecutor Karim A.A. Khan KC has concluded a three-day visit to the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), emphasising that effective justice must be central to resolving the ongoing crisis in the country’s conflict-ridden eastern region.
The visit, which took place from February 24 to 26, reaffirmed the ICC’s commitment to justice and accountability in the DRC, particularly following the reactivation of ICC investigations in October 2024.
Khan stressed that all armed groups, military forces, and their allies must comply with international humanitarian law, warning that perpetrators of grave crimes will be held accountable.
High-Level Meetings and Commitments
During his visit, Khan met with President Félix-Antoine Tshisekedi Tshilombo, where they discussed escalating violence in eastern DRC and the need for stronger efforts to combat impunity.
The discussions led to a commitment from President Tshisekedi to convene an international justice conference in April 2025 in Kinshasa to forge a comprehensive and sustainable strategy for justice in the country.
Khan also held talks with senior judicial figures, including the Prosecutor of the Cassation Court, the Auditor General of the Armed Forces (FARDC), the First President of the High Military Court and the President of the Constitutional Court.
These meetings focused on strengthening national judicial mechanisms, ensuring cooperation between the ICC and DRC’s legal institutions, and reinforcing public trust in the justice process.
“Justice is not a privilege but a right for all,” Khan stated. “Warlords and militia leaders must be on notice: We are building stronger partnerships to ensure accountability—whether through a special court in the DRC or through the ICC’s independent investigations.”
Victims’ Voices and Gender-Based Crimes
A key moment of Khan’s visit was his meeting with survivors of sexual violence, whose testimonies underscored the urgency of justice and reparations. He also met with H.E. Irène Esambo, Minister of Persons with Disabilities and other Vulnerable Persons, discussing the importance of ensuring legal protections for vulnerable groups, including victims of gender-based violence and crimes against children.
Khan assured that the ICC remains committed to addressing gender-based crimes and crimes affecting children, aligning with policies published in December 2023.
Engagement with Civil Society and UN Mission
The ICC Prosecutor engaged with civil society organisations (CSOs) and non-governmental organisations (NGOs), supporting their calls for empowerment in delivering justice. He announced plans to host thematic roundtables and develop guidance materials for NGOs involved in human rights and justice efforts.
Khan also thanked the United Nations Organisation Stabilisation Mission in the DRC (MONUSCO) and its head, Ms. Bintou Keita, for their insights and logistical support during his visit.
Moving Forward: A Stronger Push for Justice
Khan’s mission reinforced the ICC’s determination to accelerate investigations and hold perpetrators accountable. He called on all stakeholders—victims, witnesses, national and international organisations, and state authorities—to continue their cooperation in the pursuit of justice.
“Together, through both ICC investigations and stronger domestic legal action, we will move towards a future where justice prevails, and the rights of all individuals are protected,” Khan concluded.
With violence persisting in eastern DRC, his visit signals an intensified international push for accountability, as the ICC works closely with Congolese authorities to end cycles of impunity and deliver justice to the victims of war crimes.
