After a lengthy investigation, the International Criminal Court (ICC) has ruled that four leading political figures must answer charges related to the political and ethnic violence that swept Kenya following the country’s disputed 2007 presidential election.
The ICC confirmed charges against Uhuru Kenyatta, William Ruto, Francis Muthaura and Joshua arap Sang for their alleged roles related to the deadly violence that swept Kenya in December 2007, during which at least 1,100 people died. President Mwai Kibaki asked his countrymen to remain calm in the aftermath of the ICC’s decisions on confirmation of charges.
The United States continues to believe that accountability for the 2007-2008 post-election violence is critical to ensuring Kenya’s democracy, peace and long-term stability. Under the ICC process, individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty and we make no judgment as to the guilt or innocence of those subject to the recent decisions.
In the spirit of Kenya’s new constitution, which embraces transparency, accountability and integrity, we urge the Kenyan government, the people of Kenya and the individuals involved to continue to cooperate fully with the ICC proceedings and to remain focused on their nation’s future, especially through implementation of the national reform agenda. The United States is committed to continuing to support Kenya’s ambitious reform process as it looks ahead to its first national elections under the new constitution.
Accountability In Kenya
Deputy prime minister of Kenya Uhuru Kenyata (back row l) and Head of Public Service and Secretary to the Cabinet Francis Muthaura, (front row r) at a hearing in The Hauge.
International Criminal Court has ruled that four leading political figures must answer charges related to the political and ethnic violence.