Image above: map of British E.A Protectorate
Kenyan politics has a rich and complex history, shaped by colonial rule, the struggle for independence, and the evolution of political systems post-independence. Here's an overview:
Colonial Era:
British Influence: Kenya was under British rule from the late 19th century, officially becoming a colony in 1920. The British established an East African Protectorate in 1895, promoting the settlement of the fertile highlands by Europeans, which led to significant land dispossession among the indigenous peoples like the Kikuyu.
Mau Mau Uprising: Starting in the 1950s, the Mau Mau, primarily consisting of Kikuyu, fought against British colonial rule. The movement was crucial in accelerating the process towards independence, though it was met with severe repression.
Path to Independence:
Independence: Kenya gained independence from Britain on December 12, 1963, with Jomo Kenyatta becoming the first Prime Minister and later the first President when Kenya became a republic in 1964.
Post-Independence Politics: Early post-independence politics were dominated by the Kenya African National Union (KANU), with Kenyatta leading until his death in 1978. His rule was marked by efforts to consolidate power, often through ethnic affiliations, leading to the centralization of power.
Post-Kenyatta Era:
Daniel Arap Moi: After Kenyatta's death, Moi became President, initially promising national unity. However, he soon established a one-party state in 1982, with KANU being the only legal party until international pressure in the early 1990s forced a return to multi-party politics.
Multi-Party Democracy:
1990s and 2000s:
The reintroduction of multi-party politics in 1992 led to a series of elections, though often marred by allegations of rigging and ethnic violence.
Moi's long rule ended in 2002 when Mwai Kibaki was elected, marking a significant shift in Kenyan politics with an opposition victory.
2007 Election Crisis: The 2007 presidential election led to widespread violence due to disputed results, highlighting ethnic tensions and the need for electoral reform.
Recent Developments:
New Constitution: In 2010, a new constitution was adopted, aiming to devolve power, enhance judicial independence, and ensure political inclusivity, including the creation of a bicameral parliament and the division of the country into counties with elected governors.
Modern Politics: Recent elections have continued to be competitive and sometimes contentious, with figures like Uhuru Kenyatta and William Ruto playing prominent roles. The political landscape includes a dynamic mix of parties, alliances, and shifting loyalties often based on ethnic lines or strategic political interests.
Challenges and Characteristics:
Corruption and Ethnic Politics: Corruption has been a persistent issue, alongside the manipulation of ethnic identities for political gain, which has often led to violence during elections.
Voter Apathy and Participation: While Kenyans have shown enthusiasm for elections, there's also significant voter apathy due to perceived inefficacy of political change.
Kenyan politics reflects a nation striving for democratic governance while grappling with historical legacies of ethnic division, corruption, and the transition from colonial to independent rule. Understanding this history helps in appreciating the complexities and the ongoing efforts to build a stable, inclusive political system.
Image above: Uhuru Kenyatta, Raila Odinga and current President William Ruto
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