FACTORS CONTRIBUTING TO POLITICAL INSTABILITY IN KENYA

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dc.contributor.author ONYANGO, MICHAEL
dc.date.accessioned 2025-01-23T08:48:20Z
dc.date.available 2025-01-23T08:48:20Z
dc.date.issued 2024
dc.identifier.uri https://ir.gretsauniversity.ac.ke/xmlui/handle/20.500.12736/4206
dc.description.abstract This study examined the factors contributing to political instability in Kenya, a nation of significant economic and strategic importance in the region but frequently plagued by political turbulence. The research explored the interplay of ethnic divisions, economic disparities, governance challenges, and external influences as key contributors to instability. Ethnic mobilization during elections, particularly in regions like the Rift Valley, was identified as a major factor exacerbating tensions, as political elites manipulated ethnic allegiances to secure support, leading to electoral violence. Economic disparities, marked by high poverty and unemployment, especially among the youth in marginalized areas, further fueled unrest. Corruption within governance structures, including the judiciary and police, undermined public trust and weakened institutional capacity to address instability effectively. External aid, while providing short-term relief, inadvertently fostered dependency and failed to address the root causes of instability. Using a mixed-methods approach, the study collected data through surveys, interviews, and document analysis to understand these dynamics. The findings emphasized that addressing Kenya’s political instability required a multifaceted approach. Ethnic divisions needed to be tackled through national reconciliation programs, cross-ethnic voting reforms, and stricter enforcement of laws against hate speech. Economic disparities demanded targeted interventions, such as job creation, vocational training, and improved social services, particularly in marginalized regions. Governance challenges necessitated comprehensive anti-corruption measures, including strengthening oversight institutions and enhancing transparency in public procurement processes. Additionally, foreign aid needed to align with internal reforms, focusing on capacity-building initiatives to reduce long-term dependency. The study concluded that Kenya’s political instability was deeply rooted in interconnected socio-economic, political, and governance factors, necessitating holistic strategies to foster sustainable peace and development. Recommendations included promoting inclusive policies, addressing systemic corruption, and implementing equitable economic programs to mitigate the underlying issues. The research further highlighted the importance of exploring emerging challenges, such as the impact of digital misinformation on political stability and the role of devolution in promoting local governance. By addressing these interrelated factors, Kenya could pave the way toward achieving long-term political stability and fostering a cohesive, prosperous society. This study underscored the urgency of integrating immediate and structural reforms to break the cycle of political instability and create a resilient democratic system. en_US
dc.publisher Gretsa university en_US
dc.subject Research project en_US
dc.title FACTORS CONTRIBUTING TO POLITICAL INSTABILITY IN KENYA en_US


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