Chissano tells Kenyans to avoid violence

Kenyans have been urged to avoid a return to violence. Former Mozambican president Joachim Chissano, who played a key role in ending the 2007 post-poll violence, said Kenyans should discuss issues affecting them in a candid manner.

Dr Chissano, who is in the country for the Pan African Media Conference, said in Nairobi yesterday that the country should “open up a new participation of citizens in all discussions.”

“The question of land should also be solved,” Dr Chissano said.

The 75-year-old was awarded the inaugural $5 million Mo Ibrahim Prize for achievement in African leadership.

On Wednesday, Dr Chissano came to defence of embattled Truth, Justice and Reconciliation Commission chairman Bethuel Kiplagat, saying he played a key role in bringing peace to Mozambique.