Demagogue

A former Sudanese chief justice said that Sudan is capable of trying those suspects accused of war crimes and crimes against humanity and claims that his committee has identified suspects who should be investigated and prosecuted. A foreign affairs minister claims that Sudan has begun implementing the committee's recommendations, including preparing for court proceedings against individuals accused of war crimes.

Human Rights Watch is calling on the EU to "send a clear message to U.S. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice that the Security Council must refer Darfur to the International Criminal Court."

Don Cheadle and John Prendergast have an op-ed in the Washington Times

This catalogue of unchecked death and destruction must be confronted much more effectively by the international community. Two priorities must become focal points for action: accountability and protection.

In the two years since the atrocities began, the U.N. Security Council has not imposed one punitive measure on the regime that orchestrated the killings. Since hortatory appeals and constructive engagement have not restrained regime excess, it is now time to set aside the carrots and bring out the sticks. Available sticks are small but effective. A travel ban on senior officials, an arms embargo on the government, and an asset freeze against ruling party businesses would pressure the regime to stop butchering its own people and start arresting Janjaweed ringleaders. And a referral by the U.N. Security Council to the International Criminal Court would finally end the cycle of impunity that feeds the killing.

Don Cheadle was on Nightline last night - you can read his story here. I also have a copy of the transcript of the program - if you would like to read it, e-mail me and I'll send you a copy.