An investigation into women participation in elective politics among the Meru- a case of Nkuene division. (1963- 2010)

Abstract

Women in Kenya constitute more than half of the population having a better voter turn-out compared to that of men. Women in Kenya have also been recognized for their key contribution in both the economic and social sectors. However despite their great contribution in the development of this country, they have been kept marginalized in the political realm. The representation of women particularly in elective politics can ensure their contribution to and participation in directing the political process and shaping policy, to address and protect women's interests in the society. Even after the new constitution was introduced, which helped in creating more elective seats at various levels women in Kenya and more specifically in Nkuene Division continues to shy off from competing for elective seats with their male counterparts. This study therefore will seek to investigate the place of women in Kenya's politics generally and more specifically in Nkuene Division. The study will also attempt analyze the trends and trajectories of women involvement in legislative politics from 1963-2010. This will also include establishing factors that have continued to hinder women in this Division from taking active part in competing for elective seats. The sociological patriarchal ideology and gender ideology will be used in trying to establish why women in Nkuene Division may not have been able to compete equally with men for elective seats. The target population for the study will be both men and women of 18 and above who will be obtained through purposive sampling procedures. For data collection both primary and secondary sources will be used. Qualitative technique shall be used for data analysis.