Kibaki tells opposition not to dictate solutions
President Kibaki met the Government Coalition Parliamentary Group and declared that there was no constitutional vacuum. The President at the same time warned against inciting Kenyans into acts that could derail the peace talks and told the Opposition not to dictate solutions. “This is not the time to dictate solutions, but to reason together so that we can find short and long term sustainable solutions to the challenges we face,’’ said Kibaki at the Kenyatta International Conference Centre.
The President further said there was no need for a forceful settlement of the issues at hand. He said instead, leaders should support the necessary procedures to amend the Constitution. He spoke against the backdrop of threats of mass action by ODM if their conditions were not met.
The Government side dismissed the threats as not helpful in the negotiations. Foreign Affairs minister, Mr Moses Wetangula, speaking after the Government’s negotiating team, briefed the PNU leadership on the progress of the talks, dismissed ODM’s threats as uncalled for.
Meanwhile, Annan met retired President Moi at his Kabarnet Gardens residence. After the 40-minute talks, they emerged at 6.40pm and shook hands for the cameras. In a brief interview, Annan said the mediation talks were progressing well. “I’m optimistic and so should all of you,” he said. Annan expressed hope that peace would be attained soon.
East African Standard
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