The International Criminal Court has announced its decision to launch an assistance fund for victims in the Central African Republic, CAR, of a militia once run by the former Democratic Republic of Congo Vice-President, Jean-Pierre Bemba.
The announcement of the $1.2m fund comes after the release of Mr Bemba, whose conviction on war crimes charges was overturned by the court.
In 2002, Mr Bemba sent his 1,500 strong militia into the CAR to suppress a coup. His forces reportedly committed murder, rape and looting but appeal judges concluded that he couldn’t be held responsible for their crimes.
The fund for victims in the CAR was first unveiled five years ago, but the ICC says it did not become operational because of the security situation.
However, Mike Cole, the head of the ICC in CAR, told a press conference it would now “accelerate the launch” of the programme, which will provide “physical and psychological rehabilitation, as well as material support” for victims and their families.
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