28/2/08
   
As Kenyans celebrate the political deal signed yesterday between Hon. Eng. Raila Amolo Odinga and President Kibaki, we must also take this early opportunity first thank God for having mercy on our country from the political crisis in which the country was.
   
Kenyans or anybody in any part of the world who has keenly been following the political events in the country highly appreciate the role played by all quarters that made it possible for the deal to be struck.
   
It is on that note therefore that we, as Nyanza Church leaders take this early opportunity to sincerely thank H.E Koffi Annan and  his Imminent team, the UN, the USA, the EU, the AU led by Tanzanian President Jakaya Kikwete who has proved to be a real neighbour and the negotiation team from both sides for saving the country. 
   
It is always worthy to give credit where due and as the Holy Book reminds that it is good to “give God what belongs to God and to Ceaser what belongs to him”. 
   
The team above, including Hon Raila Odinga and President Kibaki have done their part and it is now our plea as Kenyans to the country’s MPs to unite for a common goal so as to have a speedy implementation of the deal contents.
   
It is our hope as Bishops and we believe it is the same with majority Kenyans that the parliamentarians work as a team in National Assembly to have the constitutional amendments as in line with the historical political deal.
   
We all know that the interest of the nation overweighs that of an individual and this was also stressed by the two leaders, Hon Raila and President Kibaki, in their speeches to Kenyans and the World immediately after signing the agreement before a crowd that included Annan, President Kikwete and Local and Foreign Diplomats.
   
Mps should therefore take the interest of this country first and act accordingly starting coming Thursday when parliament opens. Let them work forget their political  differences when handling issues of huge national interest.     
   
As the Chairman of Church for Change and Council of Church leaders, I also appeal to religious leaders across the country to continue praying for the country than ever because this is the time we needed God’s help most for Reconcilliation and healing of the country from what had happened in the recent past.

We should pray to God’s mercy and comfort to Kenyans especially those bereaved from the Post-election violence in the country. God Bless Kenya and her People.
   
Thanks.
   
Bishop Dr Washington Ogonyo Ngede, Chairman
Power of Jesus Around the World Church and 
Council of Church Leaders in Nyanza.

Unedited by Jaluo Press.