ICC halts investigation into deadly post-election violence in Kenya

NAIROBI, Kenya

The International Criminal Court (ICC) announced Monday that it is halting an investigation into violence that broke out after Kenya’s 2007 presidential elections which led to charges against six suspects accused of crimes against humanity.

The 2007-2008 post-election violence inflicted a devastating toll, claiming over 1,200 lives as the nation grappled with political and ethnic unrest.

The ICC announced the conclusion of the investigation, noting the decision was reached after a careful consideration of the specific facts and circumstances surrounding the case.

It noted that it will not pursue additional cases of alleged criminal responsibility.

"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," said ICC Deputy Prosecutor Nazhat Shameem Khan.

"Accordingly, the office will not pursue additional cases into the alleged criminal responsibility of other persons."

The investigation in Kenya began in 2010 following allegations of widespread crimes against humanity committed in the context of post-election violence in 2007 and 2008.

It led to charges against six suspects in two separate cases. Notable figures included William Ruto, Kenya’s current president, who was accused of orchestrating violence, and Joshua Arap Sang, a radio executive, who was charged with inciting violence through the media.

Uhuru Kenyatta, who served as Kenya's president until last year, was also implicated in the ICC proceedings for crimes against humanity.

However, the charges against Ruto, Sang and Kenyatta were later dropped due to insufficient evidence and witness interference.

Others who were accused of crimes against humanity include former journalist Walter Barasa, lawyer Paul Gicheru, and laywer Philip Kipkoech Bett.

Following the death of Gicheru, the Trial Chamber terminated the proceedings against him.

However, the ICC maintained its capacity to act on information related to retaliation against witnesses.

Notably, cases against Barasa and Bett for offenses against the administration of justice remain before the Court.

"Our work in the situation in Kenya will continue in relation to the two pending cases," Khan said.

"We will continue to monitor the situation closely and will take action if appropriate," he added, noting that the relevant authorities in Kenya have been informed of the decision.