U.S. welcomes ICC action on Kenya

Accountability for post-election violence that gripped Kenya in 2007 is necessary for long-term stability in the country, the U.S. State Department said. The International Criminal Court announced Monday it charged four Kenyans, including two officials planning to run for president, with crimes related to conflicts that followed disputed 2007 elections. Roughly 1,300 people were killed after the elections as supporters of incumbent President Mwai Kibaki against those of his main challenger, Raila Odinga, fought. The State Department said it viewed accountability for crimes in Kenya as a step toward long-term peace. "As we have consistently stated, we believe accountability for the 2007-2008 post-election violence is critical to ensuring Kenya's democracy, peace, and long-term stability," a State Department statement said. Odinga was later appointed as prime minister in a power-sharing deal with Kibaki. Deputy Prime Minister Uhuru Kenyatta, former Education Minister William Ruto, along with other high-ranking officials, face charges at the ICC for crimes related to the 2007 violence. "The United States is committed to continuing to support Kenya's ambitious reform process as Kenya looks ahead to its first national elections under the new constitution," the State Department added.