The International Criminal Court announced on Monday that it is wrapping up investigations into six suspects accused of crimes against humanity committed following the 2007 presidential elections.
President William Ruto was one of six suspects accused at the time of masterminding political violence in the aftermath of the disputed presidential election results.
ICC Deputy Prosecutor Nazhat Shameem Khan stated in a statement that she made the decision after reviewing the information available to her.
”After assessing all the information available to me at this time, I have decided to conclude the investigation phase in the Situation in Kenya. I have reached this decision after considering the specific facts and circumstances of this Situation,” the statement read in part.
Wiliam Ruto, Uhuru Kenyatta, Joshua Arap Sang, Henry Kosgey, Mohammed Hussein Ali, and Francis Muthaura were among the six accused.
The prosecution has withdrawn all of the accused persons’ cases over the period, citing a lack of evidence and witness interference.
The Hague-based court later stated that it had launched investigations to follow up on foul play that resulted in the interference of the initial cases.
Three wanted persons, including former Ruto lawyer Paul Gicheru, were placed on the court’s radar after it determined that they had violated Article 70 of the Rome Statute.
The ICC, on the other hand, stated that two wanted persons, Walter Barasa and Philip Koech, who are accused of foul play, will have their cases heard by the court.
”The Office maintains its capacity to act on information relating to retaliation against witnesses. In this regard, the cases against Mr. Barasa and Mr. Bett for offences against the administration of justice remain before the Court,” the Prosecutor stated.
