BACKLASH OVER ROME STATUTE WITHDRAWAL
A sad day for human rights defenders, says Suaram adviser
THE government’s decision to withdraw from the Rome Statute was met with backlash from human rights’ groups and activists.
The treaty, which created the International Criminal Court (ICC), reflects the international community’s commitment to fight impunity against perpetrators of mass crimes, namely, war crimes, crimes against humanity, genocide and aggression.
Suara Rakyat Malaysia (Suaram) adviser Kua Kia Soong said the latest flip-flop by the government had tarnished its reputation, describing it as “a sad day for human rights defenders”.
He said the confusion over the issue, as cited by Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad, being the reason for the withdrawal was unacceptable as it was already established that the signing of the treaty would not affect the nation’s sovereignty.
“The ICC exists to ensure that there is accountability for genocide, war crimes and crimes against humanity — all essential for safeguarding respect for human rights by bringing perpetrators to justice.
“Who, except those who do not respect human rights and national dignity, would oppose to such a progressive move?
“ICC in no way affronts the Conference of Rulers. So why weren’t the facts presented loudly and clearly for all to debate?
“And given that 90 per cent of the cabinet was supportive of acceding to the treaty (as reported by a local daily), it is alarming that distortions of the truth should be allowed to dissuade him (Dr Mahathir) to reverse the decision,” he said yesterday.
Amnesty International Malaysia executive director Shamini Darshni Kaliemuthu had, on Friday night, expressed disappointment over the announcement by Dr Mahathir hours earlier.
She said by withdrawing from the treaty, the country had turned its back on its commitment to combat international crimes for global peace and security.
Malaysia’s decision to rescind the Rome Statute, which it ratified on March 4, was made amid concerns that the ratification of the treaty would undermine the country’s sovereignty and Malay rights.
The announcement came two days after Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (Suhakam) said Pastor Raymond Koh and activist Amri Che Mat were victims of enforced disappearance, which is listed as a crime by the international agreement.
After gathering testimonies from witnesses during its yearlong inquiry, Suhakam concluded that the police’s Special Branch was behind the duo’s disappearance.
Koh was abducted on Feb 13, 2017, in Petaling Jaya, while Amri went missing on Nov 24, 2016, after leaving his home.