Push for comprehensive reforms - Annan urges Kenyans

BY LABAN WANAMBISI

NAIROBI, April 19 - Former United Nations Secretary General Kofi Annan has urged the government to push for necessary reforms to avoid recurrence of crisis experienced in the country following last year’s disputed elections.

Addressing the media Saturday afternoon prior to his departure, Annan urged Kenyans and leaders in particular to ensure the country remained on the path of development following the resolution of the political crisis. 

“Thursday was a great day for Kenya, but only a day. We still have lots of work to do to ensure that the country remains firmly to the path towards stability,” Annan said.

Annan added plans were underway to set up a monitoring mechanism that would ensure the country does not drift back to political violence.

He reiterated the need for quick implementation of recommendations of the negotiation team especially disbandment and disarmament of militia and stressed the need to ensure pertinent issues were fully addressed.

The former UN Chief said the government ought to develop effective mechanisms to disarm militia to alleviate any further unrest.

“The militia must be disarmed. You can not have militia in a society like Kenya”, he emphasized.
Annan said he was confident that the government was taking necessary measures to contain the situation.

He indicated that by the close of next week, the coalition government should be able to announce the committee that will look into the post-election violence.

Annan also expressed confidence that the coalition government would implement resolutions of the negotiation process adding that mediation process currently headed by Ambassador Oluyemi Adeniji should be able to complete items in agenda four by the close of next week.

Zimbabwe crisis

Meanwhile, Annan has dispelled claims that he would be required to mediate in Zimbabwe and reassured that he remains engaged in the Kenyan matter until the crisis is fully solved.

He called on all African leaders to lend a hand in solving the Zimbabwean crisis saying it was the responsibility of every leader to ensure the country goes through its political crisis successfully.

Annan noted that substantial international attention had been drawn to the trouble ridden country and further urged involvement of African leaders in solving the problem.

He said:” Everyone including Kenyan leaders have a responsibility to help Zimbabweans solve their political dilemma”.

Annan was scheduled to leave the country Saturday evening. 

Source: Bob-K (CCR-Kenya Discussion Forum)

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