4/4/2008
Louis Michel Concerned About Kenyan Situation

Louis Michel, European Commissioner for Development and Humanitarian Aid, has expressed his concern at the delay and difficulties in the formation of a coalition government in Kenya.  Commissioner Michel, reacting in the wake of an earlier statement by Kofi Annan on the situation in Kenya, expressed his full support to the position of the former UN Secretary General.

The European Union welcomed the signing of the agreement on the 28th of February 2008 on the formation of a coalition government. This agreement was made possible thanks to the statesmanship of President Mwai Kibaki and Opposition leader Raila Odinga and the facilitation role of former UNSG Kofi Annan.

Commissioner Michel stated, "I remain confident that the Kenyan leaders will be able to continue showing a spirit of statesmanship and vision in forming the coalition government.  However, I am as concerned as Mr. Annan by the delay and difficulties in forming the coalition government.  This is causing uncertainty and anxiety among the Kenyan people and the international community.  The appointment of a coalition government is now urgent and the stakes are indeed very high since many challenges need to be addressed.  The Kenyan people need and deserve a government that is representative of real power-sharing between equals and that operates efficiently and effectively to undertake important and urgent work in relation to the post-election crisis and its underlying causes.  Rapid and decisive action is needed by Kenya's leaders so that the new government can start to bring stability and prosperity to Kenya with the support of the international community."