Kenyan Politics

With the US inauguration on the horizon, its made me think more about the local elections currently underway here in Kenya.  This election is a historical milestone in Kenya's history.  With the passing of the new constitution  new positions including governors and senators are being established.  The Prime Minister position is being abolished leaving a system that will somewhat resemble the US Congress.

One of the major differences with Kenya politics is the number of political parties.  Kenya is composed of approximately 50 different tribes which means there are just about as many political parties.  To top it off politicians frequently "party hop" between the multiple parties to ensure they receive a nomination.  There are many benefits to being in politics in Kenya including a massive severance and funeral package.  Furthermore, Kenyan politicians are among the highest paid in the world.  Yes that's right.  THE WORLD.

This past Thursday marked the beginning of election season as the parties held their primaries.  In true Kenyan style, ballots were delayed getting out to the election sites and many polling stations had to repeat the vote the following day.  In some areas rumors of rigged elections circulated and thus some violence broke out.

Over and over again, world leaders, church pastors and even Kenyan politicians have stressed the importance of a fair and just election.  This is the only way the horrors of the 2007 post election violence won't repeat itself.  Despite these warnings it seems that history is beginning to repeat itself.  If Kenyans are already doubting the primary, what does this mean for the real elections on March 4?

Obviously there are a whole lot of other issues at play here that I don't want to get into; the corruption, candidates who are also on trial at the Hague for crimes against humanity, the immediate resorting to violence by the general population, etc.  I'm just praying that as we get closer to the elections that Kenyans will realize that this vote will change the course of their history.  That it is vital that it is fair, just and without violence.  Despite their tribal origins they are all still Kenyans.

*Note for all my family who is now officially freaked out: Josh and I will be following the US Embassy's regulations for safety throughout the course of the election.