The authorities in Kenya have implemented a key part of a pre-election reform package by appointing ten opposition nominees to the electoral commission ahead of elections due by the end of this year.

Opposition groups pressing for reform had argued the commission was biased because it was composed solely of President Moi's appointees.

At the same time, the Kenyan parliament voted to approve the second reading of a constitutional amendment bill.

It allows for a coalition government, and enables opposition politicians to hold seats as nominated members of parliament; previously all nominated MPs have belonged only to Mr Moi's KANU party.

The reform package has been worked out by a cross-party parliamentary group which includes opposition members.

However, it's been criticised by other opposition activists.

From the newsroom of the BBC World Service
 

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