THE HAGUE, Netherlands – A Congolese warlord convicted of using child soldiers has appealed to the International Criminal Court for early release from his 14-year sentence, saying he wants to go to university to research the causes of ethnic conflicts.
Thomas Lubanga, the first person convicted by the court, deployed children in a brutal conflict in the eastern Ituri region of Democratic Republic of Congo in 2002-2003.
His lawyers argued Friday that Lubanga has been in custody — including time spent incarcerated before and during his drawn-out trial — for more than 12 years and he is eligible for early release after serving more than two-thirds of his sentence.
Prosecutors have urged judges not to release him, saying he allegedly has been interfering with witnesses in another case.
Antisemitism Exposed
Fox News' Antisemitism Exposed" newsletter brings you stories on the rising anti-Jewish prejudice across the U.S. and the world."
By entering your email and clicking the Subscribe button, you agree to the Fox News Privacy Policy and Terms of Use, and agree to receive content and promotional communications from Fox News. You understand that you can opt-out at any time.
