The Impact of Multi-Partyism on Gusii Community Politics in Kenya
Journal Title: Scholars Journal of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences - Year 2017, Vol 5, Issue 1
Abstract
This study analyses the impact of various social divisions among Abagusii on political competition in Gusiiland, especially during the multi-party era. The main contention of the study is that the re-introduction of multi-partyism in Kenya in the late 1991 did not immediately transform Kenya into a democratic society. Multi-partyism is not synonymous with democracy. Factionalism derails the growth of multiparty democracy in Kenya. Among the Abagusii, for instance, factions exist, which have become obstacles to the growth of democracy at the local level. Therefore, the study sought to illustrate how sectarian politics in Kisii have affected the democratisation process. The study covered Gusiiland, which constitutes Kisii and Nyamira Counties in South Western Kenya. These two Counties are entirely inhabited by Abagusii. Gusiiland is tiny and one of the most densely populated areas in Kenya. Before the late 1980s, when Nyamira District was hived from Kisii District, the entire Kisii region formed one administrative district. The study was descriptive and the data was collected through document analysis. Primary data for the study was obtained through oral interviews and perusing archival sources such as newspapers, magazines, ministerial and local government reports. The sample population for oral interviews was selected from the entire population of Kisii and Nyamira counties. The data was analysed, interpreted and organised into a report where this paper was taken.The study is important, as it will address the issue of political leadership in Gusiiland. It will also address the problem of women’s low representation in elective positions in Gusiiland since the reintroduction of multi-partyism. The findings of the study is further useful to scholars interested in focusing on the influence of ethnicity on Gusii politics. Keywords: Ethnicity, Gusii Politics, multi-partyism.
Authors and Affiliations
Walter Kongo Ongeri, Reuben Matheka, Isaac Tarus
Keywords
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