Calls for lifting of Kenya travel restrictions
Monday, 03 Mar 2008 11:07
A political power-sharing agreement in Kenya has prompted calls for travel restrictions to be lifted but the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) remains cautious.
The accord was signed on February 28th by President Kibaki and opposition leader Raila Odinga and the two leaders have pledged to work towards a coalition government.
Kenyans have reacted positively for the most part but the FCO warns that the situation "remains fragile and tense in the aftermath of two months of violence and widespread displacement of communities".
Mr Odinga urged the lifting of travel advice against visiting Kenya in an interview on local television.
"There is no need for anyone to fear coming to our country," he said.
However, the FCO continues to advise against all but essential travel to the worst affected areas of Nairobi, including all township or slum areas.
Travellers should avoid large gatherings, including demonstrations or rallies.
It is estimated that around 1,500 people have been killed and hundreds of thousands displaced since the disputed election on December 27th 2007.