Kenya goes to the polls on August 9, 2022, to elect the country’s fifth President, besides national lawmakers, governors and assemblies of its 47 counties. Without a doubt, Kenya’s upcoming elections will be among the most significant political events in Africa at a time when democratic governance is receding in parts of the continent. The fact that Kenya is one of Africa’s major democracies, and given its history of election-related violence, these polls are important and will be closely watched. A smooth process will consolidate democratic gains in the country and serve as a symbol for the rest of the continent. Political campaigning is in full swing and the debates mostly revolve around political dynasties, tribal power-brokers, and changing inter-ethnic alliances. Grievances about ethnic, financial, and vote-rigging corruption are existential.
A close watch
India is keeping a close watch on the Kenyan election because of the political, economic and cultural relationships forged between the two countries over a considerable period of time. The visit of India’s External Affairs Minister to Kenya during the pandemic only underscored the importance that India places on strengthening ties with this crucial East African neighbour. For a maritime country and a regional powerhouse such as India, Kenya assumes immense strategic significance and serves as a gateway to the wider Indian Ocean Region. Kenya’s friendship is important to India to curb China’s growing aspirations in the region. Also, India faces a number of security threats in the backdrop of a dramatic rise of piracy and terrorist activities in the region. Moreover, Kenya has a vibrant community of Persons of Indian Origin presently numbering 80,000, including 20,000 expatriates. Indians are a successful community, and while their political preferences may differ, they mostly favour a closer bonding between the two countries.
