Post-egalitarian society: women and competitive elective political leadership in Kangundo constituency, Machakos district

Abstract

This study is an analysis of the factors that inhibit women from participating in competitive political leadership and the problems faced by elected women leaders in Machakos District. The study focuses on the role played by the colonial government and Christianity in shaping the participation of women in competitive political leadership in the region. Besides, the study also attempts to suggest possible solutions to the problems faced by women in political leadership. The study was conducted among 50 women political leaders in Kangundo constituency in Machakos District. In addition, 10 key informants were also interviewed. In total, the study involved 60 respondents. Data was collected using an interview schedule and an interview guide. Specifically, data from the women political leaders were collected using an interview schedule while that from the key informants were collected with the aid of an interview guide. Both descriptive and inferential statistics were used in the analysis of data. The study findings show that participation of women in competitive political leadership is influenced by socio-economic factors. Specifically, it was established that participation in political leadership requires some level of formal education. Levels of income of the respondents and control of wealth/property were also found to influence their participation in competitive political leadership. The study also found that socio-cultural factors and personal attributes influence women's participation in competitive politics. The school and the church emerged as the key social institutions that help to inculcate the attitude that political leadership is not meant for women. The age, marital status and family background of the individual were also found to playa significant role in influencing the participation of women in political leadership.

Political violence, use of abusive language and vote buying were established as some of the major factors limiting women from seeking elective political leadership. It was established that a combination of these factors inhibit women from seeking elective political leadership. The study recommends that CIVIC education should be done to educate voters on the importance of carrying out peaceful elections; this should be a process involving both men and women. Creation of 9- government supported and fully funded department is recommended to undertake this exercise.