Kenya's 2013 General Election: Stakes, Practices and Outcome

Abstract

Elections, as formal decision-making processes by which populations choose individuals to hold public office, usually provide unique reflective moments which are punctuated by myriad experiences not just from the action of polling itself but more significantly by the implications of the lengthy electoral process. But as Kadima & Owuor (2006: 182) have noted, ‘periodic elections are not in themselves a guarantee of sustainable democracy.’ Rules that ensure a level playing field, strong and credible institutions, and the rule of law are necessary conditions for democratic elections. All democratic societies hold elections essentially because they are at the core of representative...