afrol News, 8 April - Supporters of Kenya's opposition returned to the streets of the capital Nairobi to protest against a deadlock over the establishment of a power-sharing government. Blocking roads, burning barricades and pelting stones, the protesters could be seen chanting "no cabinet, no peace, no Raila, no peace."

The protest was mounted a day after the leader of the Orange Democratic Movement Raila Odinga suspended talks on the formation of a unity government with President Mwai Kibaki, accusing him of disrespecting an agreement over cabinet appointment.

Under the deal, the post of Prime Minister would be created for Mr Odinga. But in the absence of an agreement on other cabinet posts, a coalition government cannot be a reality.

The Prime Minister-designate also said President Kibaki wanted to retain key ministries as well as enjoy full executive powers.

Kenya slid into weeks of bloody unrest after a dispute over the December presidential polls snowballed into "ethnic cleansing", resulting to the killing of 1,600 people and displacement of tens of thousands others.

The government and opposition agreed to bury the hatchet and signed a power-sharing agreement on 28 February.

Opposition Spokesman, Anyang Nyong'o, said the ODM decided to "suspend negotiations until Kibaki's party fully recognises the 50/50 power-sharing arrangement and the principle of portfolio balance."

The two leaders had earlier agreed to name the cabinet on 12 April.

By staff writer

© afrol News

Related pages and feature

Current afrol News Top Stories