Political developments in Kenya and South Sudan involve ICC claims and trial suspensions

In Kenya, claims circulating on social media that President William Ruto has received a ‘red alert’ from the International Criminal Court (ICC) are unfounded. While viral videos suggest the court has taken formal action against him following calls from opposition leaders like Martha Karua to investigate political violence, there is no evidence of such an alert. The ICC previously investigated Ruto regarding 2007-2008 post-election violence, but his case was terminated in 2016.

In South Sudan, the trial of former First Vice President Dr. Riek Machar has been suspended. The delay follows an investigation into alleged threats and intimidation against the accused. Machar has requested live television or radio coverage of his proceedings, citing legal precedents from the start of his trial in 2025. The legal proceedings remain a significant source of political division within the country.