Six Government officials could be tried at ICC

By Athman Amran

Up to six senior Government officials could face prosecution at the International Criminal Court (ICC) instead of three.

US Ambassador-at-Large For War Crimes Stephen Rapp said ICC Chief Prosecutor Louis Moreno-Ocampo expected a favourable ruling from the Pre-Trial Chamber by March "that would lead to the prosecution of about four to six people".

"But the prosecution of between four and six people is not the end of the story here. There has to be accountability for other cases also," Mr Rapp said yesterday.

The envoy who was speaking during a press conference at the US ambassador Michael Ranneberger’s residence in Nairobi, said it was important that a local tribunal be established so that those who escape the ICC face justice locally.

Local tribunal

Rapp, however, said the prospect of establishing a local tribunal was slim, as it would require two-thirds majority in Parliament for it to pass. Previous efforts to establish the tribunal were defeated in the House.

The envoy said the Government has a responsibility to handle cases involving other suspects locally.

"The Truth, Justice and Reconciliation Commission is just part of it but those who killed should be dealt with by a local tribunal," Rapp said.

The US official said senior individuals who contributed to the violence through incitement, financial aid and arming people from positions of power should be held to account.

He said: "There is concern that if there is no accountability and if elections are held, this could happen again and it could be worse."