Ntganda has been charged with 18 counts of war crimes and crimes against humanity, including murder, rape, pillaging, sexual slavery and the enlistment of child soldiers. He is the former alleged Deputy Chief of Staff of the Patriotic Forces for the Liberation of Congo (FPLC), accused as responsible for two attacks carried out in the Ituri Province of the DRC in late 2002 and early 2003.
The first warrant for his arrest was issued in 2006 and unsealed in 2008, while a second arrest warrant was issued in 2012. He voluntarily surrendered himself to the ICC’s custody on 22 March 2013, allegedly due to fears for his life. The Presidency of the ICC will constitute a Trial Chamber in due course.
For further information, see press release of FIDH-ASADHO-GL-LE of February 2014 published for the opening of Ntaganda’s confirmation of charges hearing.