Ban says guilty verdict against former Chadian President marks ‘historic’ day for country’s people

The verdict announced by a special court in Senegal on the conviction of the former President of Chad, Hissène Habré, of crimes against humanity sent “a strong signal” to those who perpetrate serious crimes of international concern, United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has said.

According to a statement issued by Mr. Ban’s spokesman, the UN chief took note of the delivery of the trial judgment yesterday by the Extraordinary African Chambers in the Senegalese Courts, as it “marks a historic day for the people of Chad, the region and beyond, as well as for international criminal justice.”

“The Secretary-General’s thoughts are with the victims of the crimes for which Hissène Habré has been found guilty,” the statement said.

Mr. Habré has been found guilty of forced sexual slavery, voluntary homicide, kidnappings of individuals followed by their disappearances, summary executions and torture.

The Secretary-General congratulated the African Union and Senegal on the establishment of the tribunal and expressed his gratitude to all those States who have contributed to this achievement, the statement said.

“The judgment sends a strong signal to those who would perpetrate serious crimes of international concern, including those at the highest echelons of political power, that they will be held accountable for their actions,” it added.