'Systematically prosecute them' - Sahel States recommend taking France, Ukraine to ICJ over terrorism: Video
Niger’s Interior and Decentralisation Minister Mohamed Toumba announced on Monday, September 15 that the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) intends to pursue legal action against France and Ukraine at the International Court of Justice (ICJ), accusing both countries of backing terrorism in the region.
“I am pleased to note the decision to systematically prosecute France and Ukraine,” Toumba told delegates at the second meeting of AES justice ministers. He also praised national courts for bringing charges against international media outlets, including France 24, RFI, and TV5Monde, saying their “editorial line also includes an apology for terrorism.”
The latest statement builds on proposals raised at an earlier AES meeting in Bamako, where ministers discussed creating a Sahelian Criminal and Human Rights Court and establishing a high-security prison to try terrorism cases locally, reducing what they described as “dependence” on international justice institutions.
The AES, which brings together military-led governments in Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso, has frequently accused Western governments and media of undermining its security campaigns. Alongside the allegations against France and Ukraine, AES authorities have suspended broadcasts by France 24, RFI, and TV5Monde, and launched an investigation into a France 24 journalist over alleged ties to jihadist groups.
This story is written and edited by the Global South World team, you can contact us here.
