Botswana: Out on a Limb

Justice in Conflict just published an excellent piece on Botswana's role in promoting international justice. A recent African Union statement accusing the International Criminal Court of racist motivations struck yet another blow to the relationship between Africa and the court, and Botswana stood as the only dissenting voice.

Botswana President Ian Khama
source: skynews.com.au

The accusation follows the election of Uhuru Kenyatta and William Ruto, both under indictment by the ICC, to the presidency and vice-presidency of Kenya. This election means that two African heads of state--Kenyatta and Omar al-Bashir of Sudan--are under investigation by the court (though the Kenyan leaders are appearing voluntarily, unlike their Sudanese counterpart). Under this renewed political pressure, countries such as Malawi, who have been strong defenders of the court, joined in the majority statement. Even the Gambia, home country of ICC Chief Prosecutor Fatou Bensouda, voiced opposition to the court.

Botswana's support, given despite expected political backlash, is important. More countries, including those outside of Africa, need to stand against political pressure in support of an international judicial system and an end to impunity. Certainly, the AU's concerns should be addressed--the ICC must ensure that it is not unfairly targeting the continent. But international law cannot be held hostage by the same powerful actors it seeks to hold accountable.