Azimio La Umoja Coalition Threatens ICC

By Baraka Simba

In a significant development amid ongoing tensions, the Azimio La Umoja coalition has escalated its condemnation of alleged police brutality during recent anti-Finance Bill protests, announcing plans to petition the International Criminal Court (ICC) for intervention.

Led by prominent figures including Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka, the coalition has vehemently criticized the government’s response to demonstrations, accusing President William Ruto’s regime of negligence and a lack of empathy towards the grievances of the populace.

Addressing reporters following a visit to victims of the protests at Kenyatta National Hospital, Kalonzo Musyoka condemned what he termed as “unacceptable acts of violence and repression against innocent Kenyans.”

“We will meticulously document every incident of abuse and present a comprehensive dossier to the ICC prosecutor. The blatant disregard for human rights witnessed during these protests cannot go unanswered,” declared Kalonzo, visibly impassioned by the plight of those affected.

The protests, sparked by opposition to the Finance Bill, saw widespread allegations of police brutality, including reports of arbitrary arrests, use of excessive force, and even fatalities among demonstrators. Such incidents have galvanized public outrage and drawn international attention to Kenya’s handling of civil unrest.

“This is a pivotal moment for justice in Kenya. We refuse to let these violations of human rights be swept under the rug. The ICC represents a beacon of hope for accountability and redress,” Kalonzo emphasized, highlighting the coalition’s determination to seek justice through international avenues.

The decision to invoke the ICC echoes previous calls by Azimio La Umoja during protests against the high cost of living, reflecting growing dissatisfaction with the government’s handling of dissent and its perceived erosion of democratic freedoms.

As tensions continue to simmer, Kenyans await further developments with keen interest, hopeful that international scrutiny will bring about meaningful change and ensure accountability for alleged abuses.

Baraka Simba is a seasoned correspondent covering political developments in Kenya.