ICC launches outreach programme in Rift Valley
ICC field coordinator Ms Maria Kamara reacts during the ICC media workshop in Mombasa at Hotel Royal Court, with the aim of preparing journalists covering the international trials with comparative experiences. Photo Elkana Jacob
The ICC has initiated a community outreach programme in the Rift Valley to dispel any fears and misinformation on the court's process among Kenyans. The initiative comes as the court prepares to begin the trial of four Kenyans the 2007/08 post- election violence. Representatives of the ICC are set to meet with community leaders from Rongai, Nakuru town and Naivasha constituency in Nakuru county in a forum to discuss the court's process and outcome. Deputy Prime Minister Uhuru Kenyatta, Eldoret North MP William Ruto, former Head of Public Service Francis Muthaura and radio journalist Joshua Sang are waiting for the court to announce trial date following the conclusion of the status conference two weeks ago.
Speaking during a meeting with youth and community leaders in Rongai ICC field public information and outreach officer Maria Kamara dismissed claims that the four suspects will be detained by the court once the trials begin. She said the four Kenyan suspects will be free to go The Hague and return during the duration of the trial because the court has not issued warrants of arrest against them. She added that the court had so far not issued any statement indicating the four are likely to be detained.
Kamara said the ICC programme aims to reach out to the various opinion leaders in the society to educate the locals on the court. However, some of the participants accused the ICC of being manipulated by the powerful western countries. They asked the court to ensure that if found guilty, the suspects will be compelled to compensate victims of the violence.