Kenya parliament fast-tracks power-sharing deal.

12 Mar, 2008

Kenya could have a new coalition government as early as the week beginning 17 March following the approval by parliamentary speaker Kenneth Marende of a motion to fast-track the requisite laws. Members are expected to start debating the national accord and reconciliation bill and the constitutional amendment bill on 13 March, paving the way for the implementation of the power-sharing deal signed by president Mwai Kibaki and opposition leader Raila Odinga in late February. The approved legislation would enter into force after two days.

The move comes as the sides continue to argue over the role and responsibilities of the prime minister, a post which does not currently exist in Kenya and which will be taken by Odinga under the terms of the power-sharing accord. Recently the government said Kibaki would appoint the cabinet and set the government agenda, while Odinga