December 18, 2000: The National Development Party signals its willingness to form a Government of national unity or a coalition with Kanu. But party leader Raila Odinga (left) dismisses a merger as proposed by President Moi at the weekend as it would mean a dissolution or absorption of one of the parties. The NDP is of the view that either a government of national unity or a broad based partnership or coalition is desirable,” he told a press conference in Nairobi. Mr Odinga was replying to a proposal raised by President Moi while addressing wananchi at Ndhiwa and Homa Bay on Saturday for a merger between Kanu and NDP to enhance national unity”. Mr. Odinga said a coalition between the two parties would make more Kenyans feel that they were participants in the power process. Although the present Constitution is silent on a coalition government, it nevertheless gives the President a free hand to choose the Cabinet from among Members of Parliament. Na Raila Odinga addresses journalists at the Nairobi Safari Club accompanied by the party’s secretary General Mr. Abisai Johnson Angote (right) on December 18, 2000.

Photo|Nation Syndication