End Of A Stalemate As Anxiety Rises.

President Kibaki and ODM leader Raila Odinga have come to the end of a power sharing stalemate,and have at last agreed to meet on Saturday 12th

They had disagreed over four ministries:Local Government,Finance,Internal Security and Public Service.They also disagreed on the size of the cabinet:President Kibaki felt they should have a cabinet of 38 members while Mr.Odinga felt that they should be 34.

The United State Ambassador Mr.Michael Ranneberger said,"President Kibaki and Mr.Odinga should quickly name the Cabinet to ensure the country returns on a path of economic recovery.Formation of the new Government is not happening as fast as Kenyans expected".

Mediator,Koffi Annan said,"the cabinet should be shared equally with appropriate portfolio balance,thus enabling each party to see itself as playing an equal role with the other partner.

"President Kibaki and Prime Minister designate have now agreed to have a cabinet of 40 ministers,despite the loud cry of Kenyans for a lean cabinet.This is a country that needs finances to put many things in order more than before.Splitting ministries to create more space for individuals and even parties is a very raw deal for Kenyans.This plan is going to drain the finaces of our country.

Kenyans have been very patient,and are running out of it. All that is being done should serve the interest of Kenyans.Here is a country where millions earn below one US Dollars a day.Why should such people suffer,and at who's expense?Kenyans wait for the naming of the new cabinet not with joy as would have been expected.

Continued overfeeding,however nutritious a stuff may be,will not be eaten with love.We hope for a Government of quality service this time.That may be the beginning of healing our scars.

By Leah Auma Okeyo

Kenya.