Starting in March of 2013, Kenyans will be electing the very
first senators, governors,
and female representatives into the government thanks to the new decentralized
system that is intended to increase representation and strengthen transparency
within the government. This move to increase representation is also viewed by
many in Kenya and around the world as a big step in the advancements of development
in the country through improved public policy, as well a catalyst to increasing
political involvement and accountability throughout the nation.
I
picked this particular article because in our readings on the effectiveness of
democracy in Africa and our class discussions on what African regimes can do
better to ensure the survival of democracy in their countries when we see
retracting trends in states like Mali, it is critical for leadership to evolve ad
grow to become more effective and accountable for their people and increasing avenues
for greater representation in government is a great way to do so.
We
should care about this issue and particularly the success of issues such as
these because for Africans to continue with the prospect of democracy even when
there are slow results and stagnant problems within the country, they must feel
that they have a hand in the governance of their country’s decisions and that
all the policies and actions of the government support the best interests of
all the people and not just a select few. The best way to build and strengthen this
accountability in government is through increasing involvement in policy decisions
by the people and thus creating a feeling of ownership and pride in the system
that will be able to withstand tough times because of investments made by the population.
The
article addressed a number of things that could go wrong with the
implementation of this system in Kenya, for example increased corruption,
voting solely along identity and ethnic lines, and possible intrastate and/or
interstate conflict due to the final results of the elections. Furthermore,
given the history and mystery of general elections in Kenya in the past there
is a definite need for concern on all sides of this issue and insuring that
this process is handled smoothly and correctly should be a top priority of the
international community within the next 6 months.
In reference
to policymakers current and future in Kenya, it should be their top priority to
ensure stability and accountability into the government structure of Kenya and
make sure that this election process is handled properly to minimize disputes
over results. If done properly this fundamental change by the Kenyan people
could mean a turn for the better in the effectiveness of rule and hopefully the
overall development of the country and the region but if not handled properly
we could see another key African state teetering on the brink of civil
conflict.
Sources:
Nic. "DECENTRALIZATION, ELECTIONS AND THE ODM IN KENYA." Democracy in Africa. Web. 23
Oct. 2012.
Nate-
ReplyDeleteInteresting look at how decentralization of voting might help improve stability. But I want to know- do you thin this is a move in the right direction? Dont hesitate to insert your own beliefs into the overview!
Even if the elections are done properly do you think there is still a chance for conflict? Many countries who have decentralized governments or small coalitions governing different areas have conflict between groups. I am also curious how decentralization leads to transparency in the government?
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