8 Aug 2003

Solomons opposition wants PM charged for crimes against humanity

9:44 am on 8 August 2003

A Solomon Islands opposition politician has called for the prime minister, Sir Allan Kemakeza, to be indicted on charges of crimes against humanity.

Alfred Sasako such a move should be considered by the Australian-led intervention force after claims by rebel leader, Harold Keke, that he killed ten captured men from Malaita last year after they said they had been sent by Sir Allan.

Mr Sasako says while the prime minister did not take part in their execution, his action in sending them to their death is a crime against humanity.

And he says the prime minister should step aside.

The call follows an earlier claim by Sir Allan that Mr Sasako was responsible for sending the 10 men on their failed mission to catch Keke.