Leakey party allowed to run

The Kenyan government registered the opposition Safina party of the conservationist Richard Leakey, but the party said it was undecided about fielding candidates in the general election on 29 December.

The decision to register Safina adds a further element to calculations on opposition electoral strength. President Daniel arap Moi, in power since 1978, is favourite to win a final term against candidates divided along ethnic and personal lines.

The strength of Safina, which said it provided the best forum for uniting Kenya's opposition when it first applied for registration in 1995, remains untested.