Republika Srpska Vice President Ćamil Duraković welcomed the decision of the Mechanism for International Criminal Justice to reject the request for early release of Ratko Mladić, stressing that it is a “victory for justice” and an important message for victims.
“The Mechanism for International Criminal Justice has rejected the request for early release of Ratko Mladić, convicted of genocide in Srebrenica and crimes committed during the siege of Sarajevo. The life sentence, confirmed by the Appeals Chamber on 8 June 2021, remains in full force,” stated Duraković.
He recalled that in April this year he filed a formal application with the Mechanism, in accordance with Rule 151 of the Rules of Procedure and Evidence, outlining the reasons why early release is not justified given the gravity of the conviction, the absence of proven rehabilitation and the interests of the surviving victims.
“I thank everyone who supported our letter to the Mechanism and the arguments we presented. The institution whose name is borne by the forces that committed these crimes has a duty to stand on the side of justice, and we have fulfilled that duty. This is a victory for the survivors and for all who lost loved ones in the genocide in Srebrenica and during the siege of Sarajevo. I thank the victims’ organizations, legal experts and all who insisted on the consistency of international justice,” said Duraković in a statement to the media.
