A critical analysis of the various causes of electoral offences and malpractices and their consequences in Kenya.

Abstract

This study undertook to identify the various causes of electoral malpractices and their consequences in Kenya. Although the constitution and other major legislations in Kenya provides for the governance of elections and prohibits electoral malpractices, the study carried out proves that the fight against electoral malpractices are far from over. The electorate the three arms of government alike have accelerated electoral malpractices in Kenya. Principles of rule of law have been thrown out of the window. The purpose of this study is to find out what causes electoral malpractices, the various types of electoral malpractice and their consequences in Kenya. Also attention will be drawn to other states that political indiscipline and the consequences there after. The methods used to carry out this research include inter-alia; text books, novels journals internet, reports from commissions of inquiry and newspapers. According to the findings the main causes of electoral malpractices in Kenya include inter-alia; weak electoral laws, breach of the principles of rule of law, corruption and ethnic differences. Finally, as recommendations to the underlying root causes of weak electoral laws, parliament should legislate accordingly and save the situation. There is need to empower the IEBC fully with all logistic support to facilitate it and conduct all elections without a hitch. It's important to note that the IEBC is a toddler as far as elections are concerned.