Post-election violence victims in North Rift Tuesday conducted prayers for Deputy President William Ruto and Joshua Sang before the ICC delivered its ruling.
The group under the ‘Kenya Peace and Reconciliation Initiative’, which comprised victims from both Kalenjin and Kikuyu communities, called for an end to the cases.
The victims marched along Timboroa trading centre, one of the epicentres of the violence, and conducted prayers. They also expressed optimism that the two would be acquitted of the charges.
“We expect the best results from the court and if in any way they rule against their favour, we shall be forced to travel to ICC and appeal the decision,” said the group’s chairman Stephen Mwangi.
He said the violence is behind them. “We do not wish to see Ruto and Sang continue experiencing hard times in a case which to us is of no help. We already forgave each other and agreed to live in harmony,” said Mwangi.
Benjamin Chepserem lauded the Government for resettling them, saying the country is currently at peace after massive campaigns from religious groups and leaders on the need to unite.
“The case has no value to us. We suffered a lot in 2007 but have healed. ICC should drop any charges against the two as we head to the next general election,” he said.
At the same time, victims from Kiambaa in Uasin Gishu, which was adversely affected, said the communities that were engaged in the skirmishes have since reconciled.
Joseph Githuku, who lost his wife and child in the skirmishes, said they had reconciled and forgiven each other and are now engaging in development activities together.
“It will be our joy if the Kenyan cases at the ICC are terminated for we have enjoyed peace with our neighbours,” he said.
