Kenya's Kibaki unveils coalition cabinet

NAIROBI (Reuters) - Kenya's President Mwai Kibaki named political rival Raila Odinga as head of a power-sharing cabinet on Sunday, ending weeks of impasse that threatened to undermine economic recovery after a deadly post-election crisis.

"I want to thank you, my fellow Kenyans, for your tolerance and patience during this period," Kibaki said in a televised speech. "I'll do everything possible to ensure that our country Kenya is steered along the path of peace, unity and stability."

He retained Finance Minister Amos Kimunya in the new 40-member government line-up, and confirmed Odinga of the Orange Democratic Movement as prime minister.

The naming of a power-sharing cabinet is central to a deal ending the east African nation's post-election crisis. More than 1,200 people died and 300,000 were uprooted in what became the country's bloodiest episode since independence in 1963.

Uhuru Kenyatta from Kibaki's coalition and Musalia Mudavadi of Odinga's party were named deputy prime ministers.

William Ruto, another senior opposition figure unpopular with many Kibaki aides, was appointed agriculture minister.

"My challenge to the new cabinet members, and to the entire national leadership at all levels, is let us put politics aside and get to work," Kibaki said.

"Let us build a new Kenya where justice is our shield and defender and where peace and liberty and plenty will be found throughout the country."

Violence exploded after Odinga accused Kibaki, Kenya's longest-serving politician, of rigging the Dec. 27 election, Kenya's closest-ever presidential poll.