Government, opposition parties begin discussion on justice for war victims                                                                          

By Simon Deng                                                     

The government and the opposition parties attending peace talks in the Kenyan capital, Nairobi have been discussing justice and accountability issues for victims of the December 2013 conflict.

Edmund Yakani, the Executive Director for Community Empowerment for Progress Organization (CEPO), said in a statement issued on Thursday that the parties attending the “Tumaini peace talks” since May 3, are now tackling issues of justice, accountability and the economic conditions in the country.

“The parties and stakeholders in the Nairobi peace talks began in-depth discussions on matters of economy and justice today, after detailed discussions on political governance and security arrangements for the last three days,” Yakani said.  

He disclosed that the talks are progressing well, despite some hardliners from both sides expressing reservations on some issues                                                                                                                                                                                                                         

“The peace talks are proceeding well with some hardline positions on subject matters on the agenda. Most observers said the spirit of commitment for negotiation and mediation from all parties and stakeholders is high and positive,” Yakani said.

He disclosed that the mediation team is encouraging the political leaders to maintain positive attitudes for dialogue.

Yakani noted that the parties have been urged to demonstrate political maturity and discipline during the peace process.