Pretoria - The position of African leaders on the International Criminal Court (ICC) is based on Africa’s quest for an equitable world order, where regions of the world would be treated equally, says President Jacob Zuma.
Replying to questions in the National Assembly on Wednesday, Zuma said it was also based on the need to cement hard-won peace and stability in areas which have been ravaged by conflict.
At the last African Union (AU) summit in October, it was agreed that no charges shall be commenced or continued before any international court or tribunal against any serving Head of State or Government, or anybody acting or entitled to act in such capacity during his or her term of office.
According to the AU, to safeguard the constitutional order, stability and integrity of member States, they resolved that no serving AU Head of State or Government or anybody acting or entitled to act in such capacity, shall be required to appear before any international court or tribunal during his term of office.
President Zuma said it was not at all designed to create an impression that certain leaders may be above the law.
“The African Union is committed to equality before the law and to fighting impunity, hence the process of expanding the mandate of the African Court of Justice and Human Rights, which would help us promote finding African solutions to African problems.
“The recommendation that sitting Heads of State should not stand trial in a manner that would disrupt governance in their countries will not necessarily result in Heads of State extending their terms of office,” Zuma said.
The AU has its own instruments for promoting the adherence to democratic principles, such as the Charter on Good Democracy, Elections and Governance and the peer review mechanisms, he said.
“What we are guarding against is the situation where countries that had moved to a semblance of stability suddenly regress due to a vacuum that would be created when leaders are taken away to stand trial. Africa prides itself on the progress made thus far in promoting peace and democracy,” Zuma said.
The measures suggested, he said, were merely designed to promote stability and ensure that peace takes root in areas that have been wracked by conflict. “It is not at all designed to promote undemocratic tendencies or a culture of impunity for Heads of State.” – SAnews.gov.za
