Gachagua Says Opposition Building ICC Case Against Ruto Over Protest Crackdown
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has announced that opposition leaders are compiling evidence to file a case against President William Ruto at the International Criminal Court (ICC). The case alleges crimes against protesters during the recent anti-government demonstrations across Kenya.
Gachagua, who now leads the Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP), made the remarks during an address in Seattle, Washington. He said a legal team is collecting verified evidence to support claims of police brutality, abductions, and targeted killings of Gen Z protesters.
“I want to confirm that we have put up a team that is documenting all inhuman actions against protesters,” Gachagua said on Friday. “We have also put together a team collecting evidence to take William Ruto to The Hague because you need the future after his exit.”
The planned ICC submission follows weeks of nationwide protests and broader concerns over cost of living and governance. Human rights groups have documented instances of excessive force during the protests, including live bullets used on unarmed demonstrators.
Gachagua also condemned Ruto’s reported order to security officers to “shoot protesters on the legs,” a statement that has drawn national and international criticism.
“He has said you will be shot in the leg,” Gachagua added. “I’m asking Gen Z that your issues have been heard. You have said enough the next battle with Kasongo is on the ballot.”
Gachagua’s statement referenced the controversy surrounding Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) selections. He accused the administration of attempting to influence future elections through biased appointments.
Martha Karua, leader of the PLP party, echoed Gachagua’s remarks and challenged the president’s influence over electoral bodies. “Even if Kasongo himself becomes the chair of IEBC, we will still defeat him. Even if he becomes the whole commission, we will still win but we have to stick together,” Karua said.
President Ruto has not issued a public response to the ICC threat. However, his administration has defended the police response as necessary to restore order during what officials described as “unlawful demonstrations.”
The ICC has previously investigated Kenya’s post-election violence in 2007–2008, a case that included Ruto as a suspect. That case collapsed due to lack of evidence and alleged witness interference.
As opposition leaders push for international accountability, the protests continue to reshape Kenya’s political climate. The demand for justice, especially among Gen Z protesters, remains central to the movement.
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