In a landmark verdict on December 9, 2025, the International Criminal Court (ICC) sentenced Ali Muhammad Ali Abd-Al-Rahman — also known as Ali Kushayb — to 20 years behind bars for war crimes and crimes against humanity committed during the brutal 2003–2004 conflict in Sudan’s Darfur region. The ruling marks the first time the ICC has handed down a conviction related to the Darfur atrocities.
27 Convictions for Mass Killings, Torture and Rape
The court found Abd-Al-Rahman guilty on 27 counts, including murder, torture, rape, pillage, forcible displacement of civilians, and other crimes against humanity. Prosecutors detailed how the former militia commander not only ordered mass executions and attacks on villages, but also personally took part in violent acts — including killing prisoners with an axe during operations in 2003–2004.
Judges reasoned that these crimes were not isolated incidents, but part of a coordinated campaign targeting civilian populations, particularly from ethnic groups perceived to support a rebellion. The atrocities committed under his command devastated entire villages and forced large-scale displacement.
Sentence and Legal Significance
Although prosecutors had sought a life sentence, the court imposed a 20-year sentence, citing factors such as the defendant’s age, his voluntary surrender, and his conduct during detention and trial. However, judges noted these mitigating factors received only limited weight given the severity of his crimes. Time already served in custody — since his surrender in June 2020 — will be deducted from the total term.
At 76 years old, Abd-Al-Rahman’s 20-year sentence is likely to amount to a life sentence in effect. Human rights advocates have described the ruling as a major, if overdue, step toward justice for hundreds of thousands of victims in Darfur.
Why This Verdict Matters
- Justice for Darfur’s victims: This is the first conviction (and sentencing) by the ICC related to the 2003–2004 Darfur genocidal campaign, offering a measure of accountability after decades of impunity.
- International legal precedent: The verdict underscores that senior militia leaders — even decades after crimes — can be held responsible for mass atrocities, serving as a deterrent to other potential war criminals.
- Ongoing conflict concerns: With renewed violence and displacement continuing to plague Sudan, the ruling comes amid rising calls for further investigations and justice for fresh atrocities.
