Kenya has called for urgent reforms at the International Criminal Court (ICC), hours after the United States sanctioned the court.

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Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary Korir Sing’Oei on Saturday, October 10, called for reforms, saying the court needs to address its shortcomings rather than face sanctions.

“The ICC deserves serious criticism for failing to live up to the mandate and expectations for which it was established and for being selective in its focus,” Sing’Oei said.

In a statement, the PS said Kenya would continue working with member states to  push for reforms aimed at improving the court’s performanc e and addressing concerns about its approach to cases.

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“What it needs is urgent reform. Not sanctions. Kenya will continue to work with State Parties to reform the court,” the PS added.

His remarks followed the U.S. government’s announcement of sweeping financial sanctions against the ICC on Friday, October 9, sparking uproar and criticism globally.

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the measures were intended to protect America and prevent the court from exercising what the U.S. considers illegitimate jurisdiction over Americans.

“Today, the Trump administration is sanctioning the ICC. This action should encourage our allies within the court to work for solutions to end this threat to US sovereignty forever,” Rubio said.

The U.S. government announced a ban on financial transactions with the ICC, targeting its ability to access financial services and conduct operations.

Nonetheless, Trump's administration provided an initial six-month grace period for some measures to allow countries to negotiate a solution to its concerns.

📰 Source: Kenyans.co.ke