ICC Convicts Two Anti-Balaka Leaders for Central African Republic War Crimes

The International Criminal Court (ICC) has convicted two leaders of the predominantly Christian anti-Balaka militia in the Central African Republic (CAR) for war crimes and crimes against humanity committed during the 2013–2014 civil war. Patrice-Edouard Ngaissona, a former minister and football executive, was sentenced to 12 years for 28 counts, while militia commander Alfred Yekatom, also known as 'Rambo,' received a 15-year sentence for 20 counts, including murder, torture, and forcible transfer of Muslim civilians. The anti-Balaka militias emerged as a retaliatory force against the Muslim Seleka rebels who overthrew then-President François Bozizé, leading to widespread sectarian violence and displacement. Both men pleaded not guilty but were found guilty of orchestrating brutal attacks, although they were acquitted of charges such as enlisting child soldiers and rape. Human Rights Watch called the verdict an important step toward justice but emphasized the ongoing need to address accountability gaps for serious crimes in the CAR. The ICC continues to investigate and try other figures involved in the conflict, including leaders from the Seleka faction.