International actors in African domestic politics and elections: a case study of Kenya

Abstract

The concept of international actors in African politics and elections has currently raised much debate than ever before. This engagement is affecting governments, states and politics in Africa and is critically effecting, either positively and negatively, in the unfolding of socio-economic and political developments on the continent. Although the concept of sovereignty and non interference has been emphasized by various international organizations, including ED, UN, the international community and their central role of promoting 'peace' in elections and politics raises a number of questions.

The purpose of this study is to investigate the role of international actors in Africa domestic politics, using Kenya as a case study. The study seeks to establish how Kenya's domestic politics and elections are responsive to the West's interests, strategies and use of international organizations in their pursuit of in politics, and whether this involvement is beneficial or exploitative.

The election crisis as witnessed in Kenya has attracted a number of international actors. The study is hypothesized on the notion African politics and elections are a reflection of Western powers interests through other international actors. A detailed literature review provides the regional and national cases of international actors' involvement in politics, elections and emerging challenges.

The dependency and realist theories are used. The study will adopt a descriptive design and draw response from citizens, leaders and secondary information from literature sources. Focused interview guides will be used to collect primary data. The study will focus on international involvement in the context of politics and elections only and select respondents within Nairobi.