Commentary (By Maseme Machuka) - Power sharing deal unites the nation in celebrations

Ref:http://www.eastandard.net/news/?id=1143982660&cid=259


Published on March 2, 2008, 12:00 am

By Maseme Machuka

There were celebrations across the country immediately President Kibaki and Mr Raila Odinga signed a power-sharing pact.

Indeed, it was a sigh of relief when the two principal protagonists finally bowed to pressure and appended their signatures to an accord dubbed "Acting Together For Kenya-Agreement on the Principles of Partnerships of the Coalition Government."

Many Kenyans had feared that there could be outbreak of renewed violence when peace talks were suspended last Monday. There is fresh hope after the two rival leaders agreed to share power.

They both gave ground under massive international pressure and the intervention of African Union Chairman and Tanzanian President Mr Jakaya Kikwete.

The two unveiled a deal that is intended to steer the country towards reconciliation following the recent skirmishes.

Annan was, however, quick to add that the "The journey is far from over. In fact it is only beginning."

He said political will was paramount for full realisation of the deal tenets.

Kenyans reacted with joy and happiness throughout the country. Business executives and world leaders hailed Kibaki and Raila.

After the Monday event — where Annan said he was disappointed at the way things were going at the negotiation table — the country went into a moment of heightened disquiet.

Many spoke in hushed tones about the aftermath of the post-election violence and possible resurgence of chaos.

Earlier, the US sent a terse message to the two leaders, asking them to expedite peace process or face consequences.

Secretary of State Condoleezza Dr Rice said it would not be business as usual if the hardliners continue to hold their ground.

"I want to emphasise that the future of our relationship with both sides and their legitimacy hinges on their cooperation to achieve this political solution. In that regard, we are exploring a wide range of possible actions," she said.

She then warned: "We will draw our own conclusions about who is responsible for lack of progress and take necessary steps. We will also exert leadership with the United Nations, the African Union, the European Union, and others to ensure that the political solution the Kenyan people deserve is achieved." Annan said the negotiating teams could not make key decisions on power sharing.

He said it was up to Kibaki and Raila to bring the crisis to its logical conclusion.

He then chose to engage the principals to end the crisis.

Before the deal, the country was thrown into confusion. Businesspeople feared of reemergence of violence and shut their premises.

The sporadic celebrations that saluted the evening of the deal brought life to a country that has been in limbo for over a month.

A new dawn was witnessed and people greeted the news with jubilation. Many of them said it was the dawn of a new year.

The feeling of being Kenyan and the spirit of oneness was once again ignited.