IGAD says trial of Kenya's leader to weaken fight against Al-Shabaab

An East African mediation bloc has called for the delay of the trial of Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta to allow his government to battle Al-Shabaab militants who still pose a security threat in the region.

The Executive Secretary of Inter-Governmental Authority on Development, IGAD, Mahboub Maalim says the International Criminal Court, should postpone the proceedings to allow the East Africa region fight insurgents from Somalia.

He said if the prosecution should be needed, it must take place at the end of Kenyatta's presidency.

Adding that evidence and witness statements can be taken and safely kept until later.

XINHUANEWS