Why Ethnic entitlement remains a major Political Capital in Kenya

 


Photo: From right Mwai Kibaki, Kijana Wamalwa, Charity Ngilu during the nascent stages of NARC formation.

Ethnic entitlement remains a prominent factor in Kenyan politics due to the country's intricate history and socio-economic dynamics. 

The colonial government created divisions and favored certain areas over others, leading to unequal distribution of resources and opportunities. 

Post-independence leaders often exploited these ethnic divisions to retain power, fostering a sense of entitlement among their ethnic groups. 

This has led to a perception that access to state resources and power is tied to one's ethnicity, with certain groups feeling they deserve a share of the pie. 

Politicians often appeal to ethnic sentiments to mobilize support, promising benefits and opportunities to their ethnic kin. The winner-takes-it-all nature of presidential politics exacerbates this, as leaders are expected to reward their supporters and punish opponents. 

Moreover, Kenya's economic inequality and poverty contribute to ethnic tensions, with some groups feeling marginalized or excluded from opportunities. 

The 2010 Constitution of Kenya aimed to address these issues through devolution and affirmative action, but implementation remains a challenge.

Overall, ethnic entitlement persists as a major political capital in Kenya due to historical, socio-economic, and political factors.

In summary, ethnic entitlement remains a major political capital in Kenya due to historical and contemporary factors. 

Here are some key reasons:

1.Colonial legacy: The colonial era's "divide and rule" tactics created ethnic divisions, which have persisted.

2. Post-independence politics: Leaders have often mobilized support along ethnic lines, fostering a sense of entitlement among their communities.

3. Resource allocation: Perceptions of unequal resource distribution fuel feelings of marginalization and entitlement.

4. Voting patterns: Ethnic affiliations often influence voting decisions, making ethnic entitlement a potent political tool.

This dynamic leads to:

1. Politicians leveraging ethnic identity to mobilize support

2. Communities feeling entitled to certain positions or resources

3. Inter-ethnic tensions and competition


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