Kenyatta returns from The Hague

Uhuru Kenyatta had relinquished his presidential powers for 48 hrs to attend a hearing at the International Criminal Court (ICC) where he stands accused of instigating crimes against humanity. But he arrived in style and immediately inspected the Kenya Defense Forces' guard of honor.

Banners reading "Our President - Our Hero" were displayed as dancers and cheering crowds welcomed him. Deputy President William Ruto, as well as members of the cabinet and parliament had been waiting at the airport as early as 5.30 a.m. The official welcome committee also included the First Lady Margaret Kenyatta and their daughter Ngina.

Ruto's acting presidency

For Deputy President William Ruto, Kenyatta's return means his acting presidency is now over. Kenyatta's decision to step down from the presidency while attending the court hearing took Kenyans by surprise. He siad that he did not want to stand before the court as Kenya's president, because this would effectually jeopardize Kenya's sovereignty. Kenya as a country should not be put on trial, Kenyatta said.

Kenyans themselves were divided over the president's actions. It was the wisest move ever, one man told DW. "Let him go there as a private citizen, let him clear his name." One woman, however, objected, saying that although this case was a personal issue, it was affecting the entire country, because Kenyatta nevertheless remains Kenya's president.

Kenyatta's move was unprecedented. In his capacity as acting president, Ruto took over official duties including the launch of a new service for investors. The 48 hours were, however, enough to cause a stir and one lawyer, Kiprono Matagei, even made an appeal to the Supreme Court to make Ruto's presidency permanent, because Kenyatta had officially resigned. Many ordinary Kenyans dismissed the lawyer's appeal as a waste of the judiciary's time. "He likes disturbing the courts for no reason. These lawyers who like going to the courts just to show that they are busy", one man told DW.

Awaiting a court decision

The president's return home is a relief to his sympathizers and supporters. The case is now in the hands of the ICC judges. If the demands of ICC Chief Prosecutor Bensouda are met, the trial could be postponed indefinitely. This would give her time to gather evidence, such as Kenyatta's bank statements, which she believes could reveal whether he had backed the people behind the post election violence in 2007 and 2008. If they dismiss the case, Kenyatta could complete his term in office without further court appearances.

Ruto, also stands accused at the ICC of orchestrating the post election violence. His trial started in September 2013.