Kenya & ICC: MPs presence at the Hague has got no legal value

From: dick.aduonga

The on-going case at the ICC is about individuals and not KENYA. It is also a very sad moment for both gentlemen, Mr William Ruto and his colleague Mr Joshua sang. It is correct that they deserve all our moral support at this difficult time. But whatever support we offer them must be measured and reasonable. It has to be within the legal jurisdiction so that those accompanying him to the Hague are not seen as some charlatans.

The accused are accompanied by some of the best legal minds. They have also stated on many occasions that they are at the Hague to defend themselves by employing the services of these wise barristers. In my view as important as it is, let the MPs give Mr Ruto and Sang the space to consult with their lawyers, because so far it appears the MPs are intent on making more perilous political statements for their own domestic political survival, than actually, helping the two win their cases. The MPs presence at the Hague has got no legal value whatsoever on the case. Their unruliness in court may even be interpreted as interference as some are not happy with the witness protection conditions.

The defence team already have details of the witnesses so there is no need for the MPs to know their identities. The legal battle is in court, Ruto and Sang should be given every available opportunity to consult with their legal teams. Mr Wiilliam Ruto, especially, cannot afford to serve the needs of the large number of MPs who constantly seek his attention whenever he has a few seconds to spare and at the same time give total attention and loyalty to the court process. The MPs must spare a thought for these people and their families as this is not time for singing birthday songs.

Wishing Mr William Ruto and Joshua Sang a successful outcome.

Thanks

Dickson Aduonga

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *