Ntaganda is suspected of seven counts of war crimes and three counts of crimes against humanity, allegedly committed in eastern DR Congo in 2002 and 2003. The charges include conscripting children and using them to fight, murder, rape and sexual slavery.
A confirmation of charges hearing is held to determine whether the evidence is strong enough to proceed to trial. It is conducted by a Pre-Trial Chamber.
Ntaganda is the first suspect to have surrendered himself voluntarily. He presented himself at the US embassy in Kigali, Rwanda, asking to be sent to the ICC, and was transferred there at the weekend. It is not clear why he surrendered. However, analysts suggest he may not have had much option following a split in his M23 rebel movement which apparently left him weakened and under threat.
JC/YL
