Groups demand referendum on ICC pullout

By Beauttah Omanga and Vincent Bartoo
Civil society groups and religious leaders have called for a referendum to determine if Kenyans want the country withdrawn from the International Criminal Court (ICC) or not.
Led by retired cleric Rev Timothy Njoya and Sheikh Al-Haji Murigu, the group declared that they were prepared to go great lengths to frustrate any efforts aimed at quitting obligations under the Rome Statute.
"If the Government and those pushing for the withdrawal, want to know that the majority of Kenyans are not with them for the withdrawal attempts, let them call a referendum. The new law stipulates that for any amendments to be done on the Constitution, Kenyans must participate through a referendum’ said Njoya.
The group that also included Jukwaa La Katiba leaders Morris Odhiambo and Wambua Kawive said many Kenyans believe ICC will deliver justice.
Addressing a press conference in Nairobi yesterday, the group that also comprised representatives from the Muslim faith leaders, demanded that Vice President Kalonzo Musyoka’s on going campaign be halted by President Kibaki.
"It is in bad faith for our Vice President whom we are paying to go out of the country on a mission majority of Kenyans are against. As his employers (and) given we pay his salary, his mission amounts to misusing his position and public funds," said Njoya.
The team censured politicians for failing to set up a local tribal when they had time only to turn around and push for a withdrawal from The Hague judicial mechanism.
The activists also voiced their opposition to the formation of what they termed tribal alliances like the so-called KKK alliance.
On drugs, the group demanded for the arrest and prosecution of those named in Parliament and urged KACC Director to prosecute all individuals named in corruption cases.
JOSHUA ARAP SANG
Meanwhile, Kass FM presenter Joshua arap Sang has started raising funds to meet his defence expenses should he be summoned to appear before ICC at The Hague.
Family and friends have also scheduled fundraising and prayer meetings in the North Rift to aid him.