Rally Rift Valley leaders behind reconciliation

President Kibaki’s meeting with parliamentarians from part of Rift Valley Province was an opportunity to continue pushing healing and reconciliation efforts. It is timely in the wake of a survey showing a disconnect between some leaders from the area and their constituents on key issues.

On the question of leaving the Mau Forest, MPs are said to hold positions not supported by their constituents. While most people in affected areas say they are prepared to move under the conditions proposed by a Government task force, they also reveal political leaders are pressuring them to stay put while they fight their own battles for compensation.