Justice delivered after two decades of atrocities
The International Criminal Court (ICC) has convicted former Sudanese militia leader Ali Muhammad Ali Abd-al-Rahman, also known as Ali Muhammad Ali Abd-al-Rahman of war crimes and crimes against humanity committed in Darfur. The verdict marks a historic moment in the pursuit of justice for the victims of one of Africa’s most devastating conflicts. Abd-al-Rahman was found guilty on multiple counts including murder, rape, persecution, and the forced displacement of civilians between 2003 and 2004.
The man behind the Janjaweed terror
Ali Kushayb was a senior commander in the Janjaweed, a government-backed militia accused of leading brutal attacks on villages in Darfur. Thousands of civilians were killed, and millions were forced to flee their homes as the conflict escalated into a humanitarian catastrophe. Witnesses in the ICC trial recounted scenes of horrific violence, including summary executions, mass rapes, and the destruction of entire communities. Abd-al-Rahman was arrested in 2020 after surrendering to authorities in the Central African Republic and was transferred to The Hague for trial.
A landmark ruling for international justice
The ICC’s decision is seen as a landmark ruling in holding individuals accountable for atrocities in Sudan, where justice has long been elusive. The court ruled that Abd-al-Rahman had played a central role in orchestrating attacks against non-Arab populations deemed sympathetic to rebel groups. The conviction underscores the ICC’s mandate to prosecute individuals, regardless of their position or political backing, for crimes that shock the conscience of humanity.
Reactions from victims and human rights groups
Human rights organisations and Darfuri survivors welcomed the verdict as a long-awaited moment of accountability. Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch called the ruling a “significant step” towards ending impunity for crimes committed in Sudan. However, many activists also noted that other key figures, including former Sudanese president Omar al-Bashir, remain at large despite outstanding ICC warrants.
The path ahead for Sudan and the ICC
While the conviction of Ali Kushayb offers closure for many victims, it also highlights the challenges of achieving full justice in Sudan, where instability continues to plague the region. The ICC has renewed its call for Sudanese authorities to cooperate fully in bringing remaining suspects to trial. Nearly twenty years after the Darfur conflict began, the verdict serves as both a warning and a symbol of hope—that even in the face of immense suffering, accountability can prevail.
Newshub Editorial in Africa – 7 October 2025
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