1st LD Writethru: Warring factions of Central African Republic ink peace deals in Kenya

Rival armed factions in the Central African Republic (CAR) signed two peace agreements in Kenya to stop hostilities and open a new chapter of political stability in their country.

The two agreements, Nairobi Agreement on Ceasefire and Cessation of Hostilities between Ex-Seleka and Anti-Balaka, and the Nairobi Engagement Declaration Adherence to the Transition Roadmap in Central African Republic, were signed Wednesday in Nairobi.

Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta and his Deputy William Ruto witnessed the signing of two agreements between Anti-Balaka led by Joachim Kokate and Ex-Seleka led by former president Michel Djotodia.

"I thank you for the patience, understanding, restraint and commitment you have shown. These are the hallmarks of mature leadership which can usher in progress and happiness for the people of CAR," Kenyatta said after the signing of the agreements.

He urged the stakeholders to adhere to the agreements and avoid being derailed from their objectives by outside forces.

"There will be many who will try to bring divisions amongst you for their personal benefit. Your principal interest should be the wellbeing of the Central Africa Republic citizens," he said in a statement issued in Nairobi.

The mainly Muslim Seleka rebel coalition and Christian "anti- balaka" vigilante forces are the main players in almost daily sectarian violence that has left thousands dead.

The two agreements are aimed at seeing the disarmament and demobilisation of the various militia groups in the country.

President Kenyatta pointed out that the signing of the peace agreements was a first step and there are still many issues that have to be tackled for the stability of CAR.

"The spirit of brotherhood which you have developed here in Nairobi should continue even to Bangui forum," he added.

Kenyatta assured the delegations that Kenya will continue standing with them even as they strive to join hands to build their nation. He said rapid and substantial progress has been made towards a political settlement which will restore CAR into the community of peaceful states.

The leaders of the two rival groups thanked President Kenyatta and the Government of Kenya for the efforts put into bringing peace in CAR.

They said their country has been in political turmoil for the last 20 years, pointing out that the commitment by the Kenyan leadership will definitely bear positive results.

"We came here for peace and to agree amongst ourselves. The time we have spent in Nairobi has made us learn and understand the efforts made by Kenya in reaching this agreement," said Djotodia.

The latest conflict in Central African Republic broke out in December 2012. Some 5,600 African Union peacekeepers and about 2, 000 French soldiers were deployed in the country.

The mediation process, which began last year in November, is spearheaded by Kenya's ex-National Assembly Speaker Kenneth Marende and fomer Kenyan army general Njuki Mwaniki. Endi