3RD DAY

MPs' retreat to build consensus on the proposed new constitution Friday entered its third day with little success so far.

The legislators have reportedly failed to agree on the chapters on devolution and representation.

The stalemate forced house Speaker Kenneth Marende Thursday to appoint a 23 member committee at the ongoing MPs' retreat to look into the contentious issues after the law makers failed to reach a consensus.

The committee comprises seven members each from PNU, ODM and the parliamentary caucus on reforms. PSC Chairman Abdikadir Mohammed and his deputy Ababu Namwamba will sit in the committee as ex-officials.

Sources at the meeting, say a section of MPs have reportedly agreed on a powerful senate and the return of the regional governments.

The move may end the deadlock as legislators engage in serious lobbying. However, the MPs are continuing with the plenary discussions on the non controversial issues.

President Kibaki and Prime Minister Raila Odinga will meet MPs on Tuesday to help broker a deal over the draft constitution.