Time is running out of Kenya

The agreement in principle to establish a prime minister's office in Kenya, one of the main opposition demands, may be the key to breaking the deadlock but time is of the essence.

The disputed re-election of President Mwai Kibaki in December unleashed a wave of violence across the country. In recent weeks the situation has calmed down, but unless a viable agreement is signed and delivered there are indications that mobs intent on attacking other ethnic groups may yet again go on the rampage.

The international community has endeavoured to persuade the two rivals, Kibaki and Raila Odinga, to negotiate a political settlement and a number of prominent Africans have participated in the mediation efforts.

But a political deal is one thing, selling it to your supporters is quite another. It is almost inconceivable that a country as relatively prosperous and stable as Kenya should spiral into ethnic division. But the signs are ominous.

The opposition is planning mass rallies if their demands are not met. This scenario could well be the spark that ignites even more bloodletting. Unless a deal is signed and implemented within the coming days Kenya will once again grab the headlines for all the wrong reasons.