Justice Finally Within Reach for Fatima Victims 10 Years After Brutal Attack

In a significant step towards justice, the Special Criminal Court (SCC) in the Central African Republic has arrested and charged Abakar Zakaria Hamid, a former Seleka leader, for alleged crimes against humanity and war crimes linked to a brutal attack on a church and displacement camp in Bangui 10 years ago. This development marks a crucial milestone in the pursuit of justice for the victims and their families.

The attack on May 28, 2014, at the Notre-Dame church in Bangui’s Fatima neighborhood was a stark reminder of the impunity that has plagued the Central African Republic for over a decade. The violence was part of a broader pattern of attacks on camps for internally displaced people, with the Notre-Dame church serving as a displacement camp and being attacked again in 2018, resulting in the deaths of at least 16 people.

The anti-balaka militias, which formed in response to the Seleka takeover of the country, had been targeting Muslim civilians, associating them with the Seleka coalition. This led to a cycle of violence, with the Seleka retaliating with even more brutal attacks. The attack on Fatima was the first in a long line of egregious attacks on camps for internally displaced people, leaving a trail of devastation and trauma in its wake.

For the family members of the victims, the wait for justice has been long and arduous. Speaking on the eve of the 10-year anniversary of the attack, a family member expressed her desire for justice, saying she was still waiting for closure. The SCC’s decision to open this case, conduct fair proceedings, and give the family of the victims access to justice is a vital step towards addressing the widespread impunity that persists in the Central African Republic.

Lewis Mudge, Director of Central Africa, emphasized the importance of the SCC’s role in addressing impunity, stating that by opening this case, the court can play a vital role in bringing justice to the victims and their families.

As the SCC continues to investigate and prosecute those responsible for the attack, the international community is watching closely. This development serves as a reminder of the importance of holding perpetrators accountable for their actions and bringing justice to those affected by conflict and violence.