Statement by ICC Prosecutor Luis Moreno-Ocampo on the situation in Côte d’Ivoire

“First, let me be clear: I have not yet opened an investigation. But, if serious crimes under my jurisdiction are committed, I will do so. For instance, if as a consequence of Mr. Charles Blé Goudé’s speeches, there is massive violence, he could be prosecuted.

Secondly, if UN peacekeepers or UN forces are attacked, this could be prosecuted as a different crime.

I think African states play a critical role in this, to find a solution to the problem. But if no solution can be found and crimes are committed, African states could be willing to refer the case to my Office and also provide forces to arrest those individuals who commit the crimes in Côte d’Ivoire.

Therefore, violence is not an option. Those leaders who are planning violence will end up in the Hague”.