Five killed in Kenya violence, reconciliation bid continues

Irish Sun (IANS) Friday 25th January, 2008

Nairobi, Jan 25 (Xinhua) At least five people were killed and dozens of houses torched early Friday in central Kenya even as reconciliation talks between President Mwai Kibaki and his political rival Raila Odinga, leader of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) were being held.

Residents said the deaths occurred in Nakuru and Molo districts of central Kenya despite hopes of progress after President Kibaki met opposition leader for the first time since disputed polls and appealed to their supporters to maintain peace.

Three people were hacked to death when violence broke out in Nakuru town and the two others died while being rushed to hospital. Sources said the trouble started when youths armed with machetes secured a bus terminus and started attacking people.

Police spokesman Eric Kiraithe refused to confirm the deaths in Nakuru but said two people were killed in the nearby town of Molo.

Kiraithe added that six of those wounded were in critical condition.

The post-election violence continues despite plea by Kibaki and Odinga to remain calm and embrace peace as they continue searching for a sustainable solution through political dialogue.

Nearly 700 people have died since President Kibaki was sworn in for a second term and the conflict threatens to stall East Africa's most successful economy.

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