US on poll suspects

The US government is willing to assist the International Criminal Court (ICC) with crucial information regarding the perpetrators of post election violence in Kenya.

US Ambassador to Kenya Michael Rannaberger says the US will avail recordings of secret phone calls and dealings gathered by its security apparatus if called upon to do so.

He says the ICC has enough capacity to collect forensic data on the subject. " US has lots of information, and if we are asked to co-operate we will certainly do that" said the envoy.

He added" we do feel strongly that those who were involved in the post election violence must be held accountable".

His remarks come ahead of next month's expected visit to the country by ICC Chief Prosecutor Louis Moreno Occampo.

His arrival will mark the beginning of a hard time for those bearing the greatest responsibility and whose names appear in Waki envelope currently with the ICC.


Ranneberger was speaking at Kathande Primary School in Mutito Constituency at the invitation of area MP Kiema Kilonzo.

He said the comprehensive constitution review was the only gateway to fundamental reforms.

Rannaberger reiterated calls for urgent police and judicial reforms, and urged Kenyans to support the Committee of Experts on the Constitution Review to enable it deliver reforms.

"The two principals have said they are committed to total and not piecemeal reforms and I believe the committee of experts can do that" said Rannaberger.

And speaking separately, a section of politicians have criticized those positioning themselves for 2012 posts, saying it is time to deliver reforms.

Water and Irrigation Minister Charity Ngilu and her assistant Mwangi Kiunjuri criticized some of their parliamentary colleagues for allegedly delaying crucial reforms in the country.

They accused the leaders of political bickering in preparation for the 2012 general election instead of delivering services to the electorate.