The political arena in Kenya has been set ablaze by a dramatic declaration from Rigathi Gachagua, the leader of the Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP). In a move that has sent ripples through the nation and beyond, Gachagua asserts that the opposition is meticulously finalizing evidence to submit to the International Criminal Court (ICC), targeting none other than President William Ruto. The central question echoing across the nation is: Is Gachagua bluffing, or does this threat carry genuine weight?
The accusations Gachagua is leveling are grave, touching on the very sensitive nerves of recent national unrest. He claims the case against President Ruto will focus on alleged excessive police force against anti-government protesters, the concerning issue of Gen Z abductions, and a series of killings, including a particularly chilling alleged order by the President to "shoot protesters on the legs." These accusations directly link to the widespread public outcry and ongoing demonstrations led largely by Kenya's youth against perceived governmental overreach and police brutality.
However, the context of President Ruto's past encounters with The Hague casts a long shadow over Gachagua's current claims. It is a well-documented fact that William Ruto has been to the ICC previously, facing charges related to the 2007-2008 post-election violence. Crucially, his case at the ICC was ultimately terminated in 2016 due to insufficient evidence, with judges noting concerns about witness interference. This historical precedent inevitably leads to the critical question: what makes Gachagua confident that this new attempt will yield a different outcome, especially given the high legal bar for ICC prosecutions?
Speaking from Seattle, Gachagua didn't just announce the ICC offensive; he also issued a stern warning to Kenya's dynamic Gen Z movement against engaging in any dialogue with the President. Instead, he passionately urged them to "keep fighting for the liberation of the country," accusing the government of plunging Kenya into severe economic turmoil. "I want to confirm that we have put up a team that is documenting all inhuman actions to protesters. We have also put together a team collecting evidence to take William Ruto to The Hague because you need the future after his exit," Gachagua stated, firmly positioning the ICC pursuit as a post-Ruto strategy for a new Kenya.
His rhetoric also took aim at President Ruto's alleged directives concerning the protests: "He has said you will be shot in the leg. I’m asking Gen Z that your issues have been heard, you have said enough — the next battle with Kasongo is on the ballot." This statement clarifies Gachagua's multi-pronged approach: legal action internationally, continued public pressure locally, and a definitive focus on the 2027 General Election as the ultimate political battlefield.
Reinforcing this electoral emphasis, Martha Karua, the PLP party leader, lent her voice to the opposition's stance, asserting their collective power at the polls. "Even if Kasongo himself becomes the chair of IEBC, we will still defeat him. Even if he becomes the whole commission, we will still win — but we have to stick together," Karua declared, highlighting a belief in the opposition's unity and resilience to overcome any perceived electoral manipulation.
