Over the past few weeks, a section of Kenyans has written to the International Criminal Court (ICC), raising concerns about abductions and other alleged crimes in the country.
The campaign gained momentum on social media, with the hashtag #FufuaICC trending as citizens called for international intervention.
Despite the criticism directed at the government, the Kenya Kwanza administration has reiterated its commitment to upholding citizens’ rights.
Speaking on Sunday, January 19, 2025, during an interview with a local TV station, Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi acknowledged the letters being sent to the ICC. He emphasized that the government would not suppress citizens exercising their rights to express their concerns.
“You know sometimes some issues are emotional. People may react emotionally, and we cannot take away their right to write to the ICC or send messages there. It is their right, and we cannot stop them,” Mudavadi stated.
He, however, noted that the administration remained focused on ensuring national security and addressing citizens’ concerns.
“What is important is for the government to remain focused, manage the affairs, and guarantee security for all Kenyans, and that we shall do without blinking. But if some people feel they will be better served by sending messages out there, I cannot stop them,” Mudavadi added.
The calls for ICC intervention followed a wave of enforced disappearances in December 2024, which sparked outrage among Kenyans. Activists and citizens raised concerns online, pressuring the government to address the issue.
The National Police Service distanced itself from the disappearances, stating that they were not involved. President William Ruto later assured Kenyans of his administration’s commitment to ending abductions and enhancing security across the country.
The controversy also drew comments from former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, who accused the government of failing to curb gang activities, particularly in the Mt. Kenya region.
Gachagua alleged that the resurgence of gangs targeting the region was reminiscent of past government oppression. He urged leaders aligned with him to document the alleged atrocities and forward the evidence to the ICC.
“In the late 80s during the reign of President Moi, the government destroyed the economy and became very intolerant and dictatorial. When the people of this region started saying no, a criminal gang was formed to punish the people,” Gachagua claimed.
He added, “Document the atrocities committed by the criminal gang in the 90s because those were crimes against humanity, and start engaging the ICC.”
Despite the mounting criticism, Mudavadi assured the public that the Kenya Kwanza administration is dedicated to safeguarding all Kenyans. He stressed that the government would not be distracted by the calls to the ICC and instead would focus on restoring public trust and ensuring the safety of all citizens.
