Electoral integrity in Kenya’s presidential elections and implications on national security (2002-2022)

Abstract

The legitimacy of a government depends on free, fair, and credible elections as a flawed election polarises a state posing a significant threat to national security and stability. Despite advancements in the electoral process in Kenya, there has been evidence of recurring electoral-related malpractices during electioneering periods. Electoral integrity is a cornerstone of the constitution of Kenya 2010 where the people delegate sovereignty to their representatives. The study sought to assess electoral integrity in Kenya's presidential elections and its implications on national security (2002-2022). Specifically, the study evaluated the role of institutional frameworks in electoral integrity and national security in Kenya’s presidential elections (2002 - 2022), assessed the influence of political culture in electoral integrity and national security in Kenya’s presidential elections (2002 - 2022) and explored the extent of foreign interference in electoral integrity and national security in Kenya’s presidential elections (2002 - 2022). The study was anchored on democratic theory and Social Contract Theory. A descriptive research design was adopted. Primary data was collected using self-administered questionnaires and interviews. Data cleaning and analysis involved editing, coding, and tabulation. The data was analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). Quantitative data was analyzed using descriptive statistics like frequencies, means, and percentages, while qualitative data was analyzed through content and narrative analysis. The study revealed that Strong institutions are crucial for fair elections and withstand challenges from political interference, corruption, and inconsistent implementation of regulations. A political culture of ethnic mobilization, violent political campaigns and voter buying affect free and fair elections. Foreign actor indirectly influence the direction of elections through disinformation and financial support to their preferred candidate. The study recommends that electoral institutions strengthen the legal structure and independence. Equally, economic autonomy and operational impartiality are key to these institutions.