He’s the highest ranking person yet convicted by the international tribunal in the Hague.

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The judgment was hailed as a landmark decision in the fight against impunity for sex crimes in conflict.

Bemba’s unanimous conviction marks the first time the court has convicted an accused based on his role as a military commander.

It’s also the court’s first judgment recognising rape as a war crime and a crime against humanity.

Bemba showed no emotion as Judge Sylvia Steiner read out the long judgment highlighting the horrific crimes carried out by his militia.

He will be sentenced following a separate hearing. His lawyers can appeal the convictions.

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