Published in the Mail&Guardian on 10 September 2018. Almost two years after first announcing its intention to withdraw from the International Criminal Court (ICC), it remains unclear whether South Africa will exit the Rome Statute system. By Navi Pillay, Richard Goldstone, and Mark Kersten. Last December, Justice Minister Michael Masutha told a meeting of ICC member-states that the country was …
South Africa and the ICC: Dismantling the international criminal justice system to protect one individual?
The introduction of the International Crimes Bill before the portfolio committee on justice and correctional services, two weeks ago, signals steadfast resolve to eventually withdraw from the Rome Statute. Is South Africa dismantling its own international criminal justice framework for one man who they will, despite withdrawal, still be legally obligated to arrest and surrender for as long as he remains wanted by the International Criminal Court?
Ramaphosa has a rare chance to stop South Africa withdrawing from the ICC
Rather than undermine South Africa’s international reputation, Ramaphosa has a unique and rare opportunity to enhance it; it is up to him to seize this chance.