In Resolution 2029 (2011) adopted on Wednesday, the Security Council reiterated its call to States "to cooperate with and render all necessary assistance to the International Tribunal in the relocation of acquitted persons".
The Security Council took into consideration, among others, a letter dated November 26, 2011, addressed to the President of Council by ICTR President, Judge Khalida Rachid Khan, who explained that efforts by the Tribunal to find host countries for the five acquitted persons proved unsuccessful.
She stated that the challenge to such relocation was the unfortunate result of the absence of a formal mechanism.
The acquitted persons staying in safe houses include three former Rwandan ministers André Ntagerura (Transport), Casimir Bizimungu (Health) and Jérôme Bicamumpaka (Foreign Affairs). Others are General Gratien Kabiligi and Protais Zigiranyirazo, brother-in-law of the late president Juvénal Habyarimana.
Ntagerura has been looking for a host country for the longest time. He was acquitted by the lower court in February 2004 and the decision was confirmed on appeal in February 2006.
Five other acquitted persons managed to get host countries : Emmanuel Bagambiki is in Belgium, Ignace Bagilishema and Jean Mpambara live in France, Hormisdas Nsengimana is in Italy and André Rwamakuba settled down in Switzerland.
FK/NI/GF
© Hirondelle News Agency