ICC Prosecutors say militia leader played key role in Central African violence

The International Criminal Court (ICC) prosecutors have stated that Maxime Jeoffroy Eli Mokom Gawaka, a former militia leader, played a significant role in coordinating attacks on Muslim civilians in the Central African Republic. Gawaka, who was handed over to the court in March 2022, previously served as the national coordinator for the anti-balaka militias. He is accused of violently targeting the Muslim civilian population during the years 2013 and 2014. According to prosecutor Mame Mandiaye Niang, Gawaka was responsible for sourcing ammunition, coordinating the deployment of anti-balaka forces in the prefectures, and overseeing the attacks.

The Central African Republic has experienced ongoing violence since March 2013, when the Seleka, a predominantly Muslim rebel alliance, seized power. The rise of the Seleka led to the emergence of the anti-balaka Christian militias, resulting in prolonged conflict. Prosecutors state that the anti-balaka militias were responsible for the deaths of numerous Muslim civilians and the displacement of thousands.

Since May 2014, the ICC has been investigating the violence in the Central African Republic. Presently, there are already two ongoing trials at the court involving two other anti-balaka leaders and one Seleka leader. The purpose of Tuesday’s hearing is for the prosecution to establish substantial grounds for charging Gawaka with 20 counts of war crimes and crimes against humanity, including murder, rape, persecution, and deportation.

Since being in ICC custody, Gawaka has not publicly commented on the charges. However, he is expected to speak in court later on Tuesday. Stephanie van den Berg reports, edited by Giles Elgood.