A call from President Donald Trump compelled his Kenyan counterpart Uhuru Kenyatta to reach opposition leader Raila Odinga for unity talks.
Earlier, Trump is said to have also reached Raila as he became more unsettled on political intrigues in Kenya, a country viewed as strategic by the US in many aspects.
According to a top aide of Raila who spoke in confidence, Uhuru was tasked to reach Odinga 'immediately' and find a solution to the political stalemate in the country.
"These issues didn't start today. The two have been in secret and highly guarded talks that even top aides were kept at bay," said the aide.
He further said: "I can confirm Uhuru made a lengthy desperate call about three weeks ago to Raila and they agreed to select a team to come up with the pact."
Those aware of the talks, he says, were warned against prematurely leaking the information since it could ignite 'unnecessary' tension.
While Raila trusted a few political strategists to initiate the deal, Uhuru brought in few aides and close family members.