Prioritise reforms, Annan tells Kibaki, Raila

Former UN chief Kofi Annan has cautioned the Government against relenting on its reform agenda.

Annan said Kenya was vulnerable to a repeat of horrific violence witnessed last year if reforms were not undertaken.

Credited with negotiating a power-sharing deal in Kenya after the disputed presidential elections last year, Annan urged leaders to ensure Agenda Item Four of the Serena talks was implemented.

He said there was sufficient political will to allow discussion and implementation of various promised reforms.

"I have the impression sufficient political will now exists among coalition partners and sufficient unity of purpose among the public to provide Kenya with a historic opportunity for peaceful transformation," Annan said in a statement on Sunday.

He also praised the Government for achievements made under the Grand Coalition, but stressed the need to implement recommendations of the Kriegler and the Waki commissions.

The agreement signed by President Kibaki and Prime Minister Raila Odinga two weeks ago, for the implementation of the Waki recommendations, Annan said, had affirmed Government’s intention to end impunity and reform the police force.

The reform agenda, Annan said, should move much faster, warning the window of opportunity for serious reforms would soon start closing.

He also cautioned politicians against premature campaigns for the 2012 elections, saying the country could be distracted from more pressing priorities.

The media, civil society, religious sector and other stakeholders, Annan said, should remain focused in pressing for advancement of reforms by the executive.

http://www.eastandard.net/InsidePage.php?id=1144003284&cid=4

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