Bemba is seeking 70 million euros (Sh7.8 billion) in damages for unlawful detention, legal fees and losses due to mismanagement of seized assets. During detention, Bemba’s assets “were simply allowed to rot”, Haynes told journalists in The Hague. The claim is under half of the ICC’s annual budget of about 150 million euros (Sh16.8 billion). In the past, defendants have sought damages from the court for unlawful detention, but none were awarded. Bemba’s legal team said if damages are awarded, a part would pay reparations to war victims.

Source: The Star March 12, 2019 07:41 UTC