AN EVOLUTION OF THE EFFECT OF POLITICAL PLURALISM AND ELECTORAL PARTICIPATION ON THE DEMOCRATIC DEVELOPMENT OF KENYA

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background of the study

Pluralism, as a political ideology, entails the acknowledgment and endorsement of variety within a political entity, so facilitating the harmonious cohabitation of many interests, beliefs, and ways of life (Malin, 2018). Although not all proponents of political pluralism endorse the concept of a pluralist democracy, it is widely acknowledged that democracy is often seen as the most equitable and efficient means of reconciling divergent ideals (Malin, 2018). In the context of the traditional developing state, it was common for dominant political parties to have significant influence, but this was not always the case. Pluralism acknowledges that under some circumstances, sincere discussion may be unattainable, and thus emphasises the creation of institutional frameworks that may effectively mitigate or preempt such a scenario. Pluralism promotes the implementation of institutional arrangements that align with a pragmatic realist approach, which involves first adopting appropriate socio-historical structures, if required. Nevertheless, it may be argued that parties have a relatively little impact on the formation of new democratic developmental states. This is seen in their limited role in fostering democracy, shaping policies, selecting candidates, promoting accountability, and executing policies. According to Hasselskog (2018), There are many factors contributing to this phenomenon, including the lack of robust institutional structures and the pervasive influence of clientelism. The potential influence of external aid is expected to be restricted, and in light of the significance of independent party growth, it is preferable for such support to be indirect. In a study conducted by Philip Keefer in 2015, Political pluralism refers to a kind of governance characterised by active citizen participation, whereby the political landscape of a nation is shaped by the many demands and desires of its populace. Political pluralism refers to a form of governance characterised by the active participation and representation of diverse societal groups, ensuring that political power is derived from and exercised by the citizenry. The stated provisions of the Constitution of Kenya 2010 emphasise that the purpose of devolution is to enhance national cohesion via the acknowledgment of diversity, as well as to safeguard and advance the interests and rights of minority groups and marginalised populations. The clear articulation of these two distinct purposes leaves little room for uncertainty about the Constitution's commitment to plurality in relation to devolved authority. The first aim acknowledges that historical instances of divisiveness and conflict have arisen due to the failure to acknowledge and appreciate ethnic variety. Therefore, the deliberate advocacy of plurality within the existing Constitution have the capacity to foster both national unity and political steadiness. The phenomenon of political violence and conflict in Kenya has long been attributed to the presence of ethnic-based exclusion. One of the fundamental principles of governance at the national level encompasses the concepts of human dignity, equity, social justice, inclusivity, equality, human rights, non-discrimination, and the safeguarding of marginalised individuals or groups. The efficacy of pluralism, therefore, relies on the contextual framework in which political and governance systems function. When the exercise of powers and allocation of resources is primarily driven by the objective of benefiting a certain group, it is inevitable that minorities will face exclusion. It is important to have a well-defined policy aimed at actively promoting inclusivity and diversity. Similar to many other African nations, the Kenyan government system has a prevalent characteristic of authority centralization.The 2010 Constitution tries to achieve a distribution of power across different geographical regions. However, it is evident that the democratic growth in Nairobi County would be influenced by the prevailing political and institutional culture. Kenya is a country located in East Africa, bordered by Ethiopia to the north, Somalia. Therefore, the study examines  the effect of Political Pluralism and electoral Participation on the democratic development of Kenya.

1.2       Statement of the problem

The repeal of section 2(A) of the Constitution of Kenya in December 1991 prompted the anticipation that the Parliament elected in 1992 would undertake constitutional revisions and amendments to accommodate the emerging phenomenon of multiparty politics, constitutional reforms, and participatory democracy in Kenya (Dahlström, 2015). The Kenyan state has seen notable changes characterised by the restriction of political participation, curtailment of freedom of speech by government institutions, and widespread human rights abuses during the three governments after Independence. Ethnic ties and attachments have significant political relevance in present-day Kenya. Kenyans actively engage in the political realm to fight, revive, construct, and negotiate their ethnic identity. This process often involves the renegotiation of their ethnic identity within the political context. The presence of human rights, whether they are civil/political or economic/social and cultural in nature, is distinct from the extent to which individuals are able to access and experience these rights. Kenya is a signatory to about seventeen international human rights agreements. However, the grievances expressed by many ethnic groups are valid worries about the socio-economic disadvantages and extreme poverty they experience as a result of government actions. It is evident that a significant contributing element to these issues may be attributed to the manipulation of political authority in Kenya. Historically, some groups have been subjected to various forms of suffering, criminal activities, and forced displacement as a result of the misuse of authority and decision-making processes. The divisive nature of ethnic politics poses a significant obstacle to democratic progress inside the nation, as it perpetuates a power struggle that undermines the development of a healthy political system. The aforementioned incident has resulted in the manifestation of leadership disputes and internal power struggles among Kenya's political parties, hence hindering the development of a democratic political culture. The presence of ethnic disparities and the misuse of political authority in Kenya are significant factors that contribute to the exacerbation of ethnic divisions seen during elections, the establishment of political parties, and eventually hinder the progress of democratic advancement. Political pluralism and democratic governance, in addition to market reforms, have emerged as prominent topics on the global agenda. The present research aims to critically examine the challenges associated with political pluralism and democratic governance in the context of Kenya. The significance of the pursuit of democratic governance in Kenya extends beyond the mere liberalisation of political party formations and institutions and the attainment of civil and political rights. It also encompasses the objective of enhancing the quality of life and social welfare for the populace (Dahlström, 2015). It is in this backdrop that the paper seeks to examine  the effect of Political Pluralism and electoral Participation on the democratic development of Kenya.

1.3       Objective of the study

The broad objective of the study is to explore the effect of Political Pluralism and electoral Participation on the democratic development of Kenya

i.                    Explore the level of electoral participation among electorate in Kenya.

ii.                  Find out the impact of political pluralism on the democratic development of Kenya.

iii.                Assess how political parties enhance the  participation of electorate towards democratic development in  Kenya.

1.4       Research Questions

The following questions have been prepared for the study

i.          Explore the level of electoral participation among electorate in Kenya.

ii.        Find out the impact of political pluralism on the democratic development of Kenya.

iii.      Assess how political parties enhance the  participation of electorate towards democratic development in  Kenya.

1.5       Significance of the study

This research aims to provide valuable insights to policy makers on the formulation and implementation of policies, programmes, and initiatives. Additionally, it seeks to serve as a foundation for assessing and defining the significance of political plurality in the democratic growth of Kenya. This will provide motivation for political parties to engage with one another and produce outcomes that promote public safety and the welfare of the general people. This research aims to add to the existing body of knowledge by enhancing our understanding of the impact of political plurality on democratic progress within the context of Kenyan Counties. This study may be used by researchers to facilitate the formulation of their research queries and to enhance the conceptualization of their investigations.

1.6       Scope of the study

The study focuses on the effect of Political Pluralism and electoral Participation on the democratic development of Kenya. Hence, the study will explore the level of electoral participation among electorate in Kenya, find out the impact of political pluralism on the democratic development of Kenya and assess how political parties enhance the  participation of electorate towards democratic development in  Kenya.

1.7       Limitation of the study

Like in every human endeavour, the researchers encountered slight constraints while carrying out the study. Insufficient funds tend to impede the efficiency of the researcher in sourcing for the relevant materials, literature, or information and in the process of data collection (internet, questionnaire, and interview), which is why the researcher resorted to a moderate choice of sample size. More so, the researcher will simultaneously engage in this study with other academic work. As a result, the amount of time spent on research will be reduced.

1.8       Definition of terms

Political pluralism: Pluralism as a political philosophy is the recognition and affirmation of diversity within a political body, which is seen to permit the peaceful coexistence of different interests, convictions, and lifestyles