The International Criminal Court (ICC) appears to be at the center of renewed accusations against President William Ruto, with diaspora Kenyans reportedly initiating proceedings.
They accuse him of using state security forces, particularly alleged “killer squads” within the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), to perpetrate human rights abuses.
These claims are reminiscent of the ICC’s earlier investigations into Ruto for his role in the 2007-2008 post-election violence, a case terminated in 2016 due to insufficient evidence and allegations of witness tampering.
Concerns have been raised about whether Karim Khan, Ruto’s former defense lawyer and now ICC prosecutor, might impede the process.
While some see his position as a conflict of interest, others argue that any potential case will be closely scrutinized for fairness.
There are growing concerns that human rights organizations in Kenya, such as the Kenya Human Rights Commission (KHRC), have been conspicuously silent on the issue, sparking speculation about their independence.
The allegations center on the misuse of state agencies to suppress dissent and silence critics, particularly during protests against the controversial Finance Bill 2024.
Reports of abductions, torture, and extrajudicial killings have intensified investigation of Ruto’s administration.
Figures like DCI head Mohammed Amin have been implicated in these accusations.
Despite denials by government officials, activists claim the abuses are state-sanctioned.
In addition, diplomatic fallout has been noted, with Ruto reportedly facing travel restrictions and declining invitations to key Western capitals since mid-2024.
This isolation could signal increasing international unease over his administration’s policies and alleged human rights violations.
Activists argue that this isolation provides an opportunity for international courts and human rights organizations to act decisively.
While the ICC process is inherently complex and politically sensitive, the resolve of diaspora Kenyans and other activists suggests that the case will be closely watched globally.
Whether Ruto will face charges again, and whether justice will be achieved for alleged victims, remains uncertain but significant in Kenya’s ongoing struggle for accountability and human rights.
