Publication

This report argues that Kenya's election in 2013 faces considerable risks of political violence. Despite improved governance structures, the country's institutions are likely to be placed under pressure and must take measures to stop political campaigns from exploiting ethnic divisions. This challenge is heightened by the trials of four Kenyans at the International Criminal Court for their alleged role in 2007-2008 post-election violence and the planned nominations of two of these (Uhuru Kenyatta and William Ruto) in the 2013 poll. The report provides a number of recommendations for key individuals, Kenya's political institutions and international actors. The report concludes by arguing that if Kenya does not move away from its violent political culture, prospects for development in an already volatile region will remain precarious.