Effects of 2007 post election violence in Kenya: a case study of Kisumu city.

Abstract

The focus of this study was the effects ofthe 2007 post-election violence, a case study of the City of Kisumu. The study was conducted by interviewing people living in Kisumu and had experienced the post-election violence. The survey covered key areas which bore the brunt of the 2007 post election violence like Nyalenda, Kondele estates, Obunga slums and town center The overall objective of the study was to investigate the effects of the 2007 post election violence. The suitability of the City of Kisumu was that it was one of the most adversely affected urban centers by the 2007 post election violence. The study was guided by two theories: conflict theory as espoused by Karl Marx and Neo-Marxists like Dahrendorf, and George Homans' Rational Choice theory. The rationale for using these theories is explained by their relevance to the subject of study. The conflict theory explains the division of society into classes with unequal resources power included. Since such marked inequalities exist, there are divisions of interest which are "built into" the social system (Giddens, 2004). These conflicts of interest at some point break out into active change and precipitate, for example, violence as was witnessed in Kenya in the aftermath of the 2007 general election. The Rational Choice theory on its part serves to explain that Kenyans need to come up with rational decision which will be oriented towards facilitating national integration and ethnic affinity. The study used both qualitative and quantitative data that were both primary and secondary. The primary data was collected using questionnaires and key informants interviews while secondary data was obtained through desk research and review of documents related to post election violence. Findings from the study revealed that the alleged rigged 2007 presidential poll results were responsible for the violence that rocked the City of Kisumu. Other grievances like marginalization of the region added fuel to an already volatile situation. The city experienced a wide range of violence which ended up in massive destruction of properties, injury to and death of people. There was a total disruption to social order as the town was taken over by gangs. Skilled entrepreneurs among them the Kikuyu and the Kisii were displaced from the City ofKisumu. Recommendation arising out of this study is that Kenyans should always espouse the value of transparency and accountability in handling issues of national importance. Any acts of impunity may only serve to divide the country along ethnic lines and put national security and stability at risk. Finally Kenyan politicians should desist from exploiting negative ethnicity to realize their political ambitions.