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Kenyan Political Negotiations Move to Secret Location

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Talks to end Kenya's political crisis have moved to a secret location outside Nairobi for what appears to be the final push toward an agreement.

The negotiators for Kenya's government and opposition changed venues Tuesday at the request of the mediator, former U.N. chief Kofi Annan. Mr. Annan asked for a news blackout around the talks.

In an earlier speech to the Kenyan parliament, Mr. Annan indicated the sides are discussing a "grand coalition" government that includes the party of President Mwai Kibaki and the opposition led by Raila Odinga.

He said the sides have also agreed to set up an independent panel to investigate December's disputed presidential vote, although he said neither side will pursue a recount.

Mr. Annan said once an agreement is reached, parliament will have to enact constitutional reforms to allow the deal to be implemented.

On Monday, the opposition Orange Democratic Movement proposed that it share power with Mr. Kibaki's party for two years, and that the country then hold new elections.

The opposition accuses the president of rigging the December 27 vote to ensure his re-election.

The dispute triggered riots and ethnic violence that has left more than 1,000 people dead. The U.N. estimates the violence has displaced 600,000 people.

Some information for this report was provided by AFP and AP.

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