Kenya

Kenyans take to the streets to protest cabinet coalition delay.

Article published on the 2008-04-08 Latest update 2008-04-08 15:30 TU

Kenyan leaders struggle to form coalition government
(Photo : Reuters)

Hundreds of Kenyans demonstrated in Nairobi today, demanding the formation of a government - as acrimonious talks over the formation of a coalition cabinet faltered. The national unity government is a key step in implementing a power-sharing deal  aimed at ending the deadly violence that has claimed 1,500 lives, following disputed polls in December.

There have been angry reactions to the deal which calls for a large 40-member cabinet. Observers argue the country cannot afford such a large number of portfolios.

Many observers are accusing politicians of putting their personal interests above those of the Kenyan nation.

Hundreds of youths in Kenya's largest slum, Kibera, gathered to vent their anger, burning tyres and branches on the streets.

Most of the protestors were supporters of the prime minister delegate, Raila Odinga. He ran against president Mwai Kibaki in last year's election. He has charged Kibaki with rigging the ballot.

Odinga's Orange Democratic Movement has complained that Kibaki's camp did not want to loose its grip on key ministries such as justice, interior and foreign affairs.

Odinga has said it is up to Kibaki's camp to break the deadlock.