Controversial Hotel Sale Now Threatens Kenya’s Unity Govt

A parliamentary vote of no confidence against Kenya’s finance minister over the shadowy sale of a state-controlled hotel now threatens to sprout divisions within the country’s five month unity government. The coalition cabinet appears divided, with some ministers calling on Finance Minister Amos Kimunya to resign, while others urge him to stay in office unless investigations find his conduct of the controversial sale of the five-star Grand Regency Hotel wanting. The country’s legislators have meanwhile threatened to derail debate on the national budget unless the minister resigns. Prime Minister Raila Odinga is expected to issue an official statement concerning the matter later today. [PE]