ICC in the Media, Update #40

This week the media has focused almost exclusively on the Kenya post-election violence case. Last week Kenya suspects Sang, Ruto and Kosgey applied to the ICC to have their confirmation of charges hearings delayed from September 1 to mid-October. However, this application was recently rejected by Pre-Trial Chamber II, who decided that the hearings should start on time. The counsel of the three suspects have reportedly said that they will appeal the decision, but will be ready to commence the hearings on time if they lose. Speaking in Nairobi last week, the ICC Spokesperson emphasized that the Kenya suspects are free to waive their right to attend the hearings. This is possible because the suspects have appeared voluntarily, not due to arrest warrants. The following video provides an overview of the confirmation process, including an explanation by ICC Spokesperson Fadi El Abdallah.

As Abdallah explains, the process may allow for the first three witnesses to know their fate as soon as December 20, 2011. This week the ICC Prosecutor is required to file documents specifying the requested charges against the other three Kenya suspects. Reportedly suspects Kenyatta, Ali and Mathaura are eagerly anticipating this release so they can tailor their cases against the specific allegations. It has recently emerged that suspect Sang is the only one of the six who applied for and received legal aid from the ICC to cover his legal expenses. Photo credit: Daily Nation.