…By Jack Sylva for TDPel Media.
President Cyril Ramaphosa recently made a statement about South Africa’s withdrawal from the International Criminal Court (ICC) during a media engagement at the Union Buildings during a Finnish State visit.
However, on Tuesday night, Presidency spokesperson Vincent Magwenya clarified that the country remains a signatory of the Rome Statute and will continue to campaign for equal and consistent application of international law.
He attributed the error to an erroneous comment made during a media briefing held by the African National Congress (ANC) on South Africa’s status with regard to the ICC.
South Africa’s continued commitment to the ICC
Magwenya emphasized that South Africa remains committed to the ICC and will continue to participate in its activities.
The country will also campaign for equal and consistent application of international law.
This clarification is important because even if South Africa initiated its withdrawal from the ICC, it would still be compelled to arrest individuals who were wanted by the court on arrival.
For example, if Russian President Vladimir Putin attended a BRICS Summit in August, and the ICC issued a warrant for his arrest, South Africa would have to arrest him.
Commentary
The clarification of South Africa’s position on the ICC is important because it highlights the country’s continued commitment to the international legal system.
The ICC is a crucial mechanism for holding individuals accountable for war crimes, crimes against humanity, and genocide.
South Africa’s continued participation in the ICC is an important signal of its commitment to international human rights law.
The recent ICC warrant for Russian President Vladimir Putin highlights the court’s role in holding even the most powerful individuals accountable for their actions.
South Africa’s commitment to the ICC is a reminder that the international legal system can play a crucial role in promoting accountability and justice.
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