NAIROBI, Kenya, MARCH 2, 2008 (Zenit.org).- Caritas in Kenya is hoping the deal struck by President Mwai Kibaki and opposition leader Raila Odinga, now the nation's prime minister, will bring peace after two months of post-election violence.
Caritas Kenya and Kenya's bishops welcomed the Feb. 28 political agreement, which they said they hoped would pave the way for reconciliation among the country's people.
Some 1,500 people died and 600,000 fled their homes after violence erupted following the Dec. 27 contested elections.
A statement from Caritas Kenya said: "The agreement offers fresh hope to our nation and presents us with a real opportunity to reflect on and build on the Kenya we want, built on inclusive government that embraces the diversity of our nation.
"We appeal to our political leaders to work with all civic and religious organizations to effect peace and reconciliation, especially those working at the grassroots levels such as the churches and established council of elders, to ensure that peace building and reconciliation are comprehensive and address the root causes of our conflict.
"Our country is traumatized by what it has seen and we must now work to reconcile our nation, while dealing with all that poses a threat to our country in the future."
Caritas launched a $2.7 million appeal last month to help displaced Kenyans.
