NAIROBI, KENYA: Kenya National Congress leader Peter Kenneth has criticized the attempt by parliamentarians to pull out Kenya from membership of International Criminal Court ( ICC).
Peter Kenneth
This follows the anticipation of opening of parliament on Thursday this week earlier than scheduled todebate on the matter in both houses simultaneously.
“I however oppose the action by our parliamentarians and their motive on the ICC.” Kenneth who unsuccessfully vied for Presidency in previous general election stated. Adding an attempt to pull Kenyaout of Rome statute will not serve any meaningful purpose.
He viewed the move as an “unnecessary distraction” calling it an exercise in futility with regard to the cases currently before the court.
Kenneth refered the intended removal of Kenya from Rome statute as “short sighted” arguing that the fear of the ICC helped maintain peace in the period of 2013 general election. “It served as a deterrent to those who would have wanted to create chaos.” He said.
He urged the ICC not to politicize the process warning that failure to do so will see it loose its respect as a legal institution. Calling on all parties involved to exercise restraint and conduct themselves with decorum as legal process runs its course.
Kenneth emphasized that the future of the nation lies in holding together and ensuring that the events of 2007/2008 do not recur. He added that “Judicial systems must remain the ever present deterrent to any form of violation of rights.”
