An Evaluation of Post Conflict Reconstruction Measures in Kenya and Their Prospects for Sustainable Unity

Abstract

The study sought to evaluate immediate conflict resolution mechanisms used in Kenya to control election-based violence. The objectives of the study were to examine the history of post-election violence cycles in Kenya between 1992 and 2017, evaluate measures aimed at fostering post conflict reconstruction in Kenya, and to assess the viability of the BBI as a prospect for national unity and cohesion in Kenya. The social learning theory of transitional justice was used to expound on post-conflict reconstruction. Furthermore, the study employed a mixed methodology and a descriptive research design with purposive sampling technique to collect data for this study in Nairobi. For data collection, key informant interviews, content analysis and questionnaires were used. Based on the findings, majority of the respondents experienced post-election violence. The study also revealed that 55.2 % of the respondents identified that the government put up measures to address post-election violence albeit not being successful in bringing about long-lasting peace. Additionally, the study found that the BBI is not a prospect for sustainable national unity. This is because it would not bring about long-lasting peace since it did not address past injustices that are often triggered by election irregularities thereby leading to post-election violence. Thus, it was established that the BBI was a political ploy set to favor the political elite at the expense of Kenyans. Therefore, the study recommended that government institutions should be strengthened, and marginalization should be addressed. This will de-escalate the division caused by the politicization of the BBI which is paramount. Further research could also be done on possible measures that could contribute to the resolution of underlying issues that drive conflict and are triggered by elections in Kenya.