ICC Appeals Chamber judges made landmark ruling, Deputy President declares

The Deputy President William Ruto has described the International Criminal Court Judge’s pronouncement on Friday as a landmark ruling.

Speaking for the first time since the ruling was issued by judges of the ICC Appeals Chamber, the Deputy President indicated that this could be a sign that the charges he faces could soon be dropped.

“God works in a different ways. You saw what transpired on Friday. This was an indication that we will soon be set free,” the DP said while on a tour of Mt Elgon Constituency at Toroso High School.

The Judges on Friday ruled against use of recanted evidence and said the prosecution could not use statements that had been disowned by witnesses during the trial.

The DP also toured Chepkurkur Primary School where he was accompanied by other leaders.

Bungoma governor Kenneth Lusaka said Friday’s ruling was an indication that charges against the DP and radio journalist Joshua arap Sang could be dropped.

Sustain case

“All Kenyans are very happy after the court refused to submit the recorded statements, this shows that prayer works,” said Lusaka.

Bungoma woman representative Reginalda Wanyonyi, Deputy Governor Hillary Chongwony and former Mt Elgon MP Fred Kapondi also said they were pleased with the ruling.

“Deputy President William Ruto and Joshua Sang have won the first round in the case facing them and we are optimistic that they will be set free,” said Chongwony.

“The case is causing tension and derailing development. Let it be determined for once and for all because the prosecution lacks evidence to sustain the case,” Chongwony said.

Turning to politics, the Deputy President called on elected leaders and potential political aspirants to join the Jubilee Party which is seeking to amalgamate other political parties within the ruling coalition.

“It is only in Jubilee that you will be able to share the national cake. Join us now so that we can unite. Don’t wait until the government is formed for you to try and claim your share of the cake,” said the Deputy President.

He said the party would ensure roads were built and health centres and schools expanded in all parts of the country.