Kenyan Rivals Sign Peace Deal

Kenya’s rival political leaders signed a power-sharing deal today in a ceremony that brought jubilant crowds to the streets of Nairobi, the New York Times reports—a change from the violence that followed December's disputed election. The agreement creates a powerful prime minister position for opposition leader Raila Odinga, with cabinet positions filled by the parties of both Odinga and President Mwai Kibaki.

“I call on Kenyans to embrace the spirit of togetherness,” Kibaki said, Odinga smiling next to him. Kenyans are relieved at what appears to be an end to the stalemate that has consumed the country, but are cautious of the power-sharing deal: “It’s a marriage of convenience … it’s going to get the country moving again. But it’s not a solution,” said one businessman. (More Kenya stories.)