The International Criminal Court (ICC) has applied for an arrest warrant against Myanmar’s military chief, Senior General Min Aung Hlaing. This move is based on allegations of crimes against humanity related to the persecution and deportation of the Rohingya Muslim minority in 2017. ICC prosecutor Karim A.A. Khan KC stated that there are substantial reasons to believe that Min Aung Hlaing holds criminal responsibility for these acts.
According to Khan, atrocities were carried out by Myanmar’s armed forces, known as the Tatmadaw, with support from the national police, border guard police, and certain non-Rohingya civilians. This application marks the first of its kind against a senior Myanmar government figure, and relies on comprehensive evidence, including witness testimonies and various documentary materials.
Khan extended gratitude to the Rohingya survivors for their cooperation and contributions, emphasizing the importance of their testimonies and the shared objective of ensuring their legal protection. The ICC’s actions have garnered significant support from human rights organizations and Rohingya advocacy groups. Sayedul Karim, Director of the Rohingya Justice Initiative, noted that while justice for the Rohingya has been delayed, it remains a possibility, and shared hope that the ICC effort reaffirms the international commitment to accountability.
The International Independent Investigative Mechanism for Myanmar and other entities are also pivotal in gathering evidence for the case. Meanwhile, Tun Khin, president of the Burmese Rohingya Organisation UK, described the ICC prosecutor’s application as a celebratory moment not just for Rohingyas but for all in Myanmar. The ICC judges must now deliberate whether to issue a warrant, a decision that could significantly advance efforts for justice regarding the crimes committed against the Rohingya.