By Chris Wamalwa in Philadelphia, PA
President Barack Obama has called for calm and sobriety as the International Criminal Court Chief Prosecutor named some of the perpetrators of post-election violence.
In a statement issued at the White House, Obama asked Kenyans to take stock of what the country has achieved since the violence and encouraged the country to forge ahead with resolve to firmly deal with the violent past.
"Today, as the International Criminal Court announces the names of six suspects alleged to have participated in the post-election violence that threatened to tear Kenya apart three years ago, I encourage all Kenyans to take a moment to reflect on the tremendous progress their country has made since those dark days," he said.
The US President said recent efforts aimed at reconciling the country should not be given a back burner. "Together you have been working to reconcile your communities, to reform your institutions to better serve the public good, and to put your country on a path to lasting peace and prosperity," he further said.
New page in history
Obama added that with the naming of the suspects, Kenya was turning a page in its history, moving away from impunity and divisionism towards an era of accountability and equal opportunity.
"The path ahead is not easy, but I believe the Kenyan people have the courage and resolve to reject those who would drag the country back into the past and rob Kenyans of the singular opportunity that is before them to realise the country’s vast potential."
He asked the Government to co-operate with ICC.
Future of nation
"In pursuit of these goals, I urge all of Kenya’s leaders, and the people whom they serve, to co-operate fully with the ICC investigation and remain focused on implementation of the reform agenda and the future of your nation," he said.
Those found responsible, Obama said, would be held accountable for their crimes as individuals and not as a community.
He said: "No community should be singled out for shame or held collectively responsible. Let the accused carry their own burdens, and let us keep in mind that under the ICC process they are innocent until proven guilty. As you move forward, Kenyans can count on the United States as a friend and partner."
