Political violence in Kenya (Since 1992) and mitigation mechanisms: A scoping review

Abstract

Kenya has developed various mitigation mechanisms to address political violence. The 2010 Constitution created a system that established democratic governance, human rights safeguards, and devolution. The judicial system has enhanced powers, which allows it to take a more active role in handling election-related conflicts. The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission introduced transparency enhancements through biometric technology for voter registration and results transmission. Peacebuilding initiatives have also made important contributions to reduce political violence. In spite of these legal, structural, and institutional reforms, the risk of political violence in Kenya is high. There are threats of ethnic divisions, political intolerance, misinformation, and the lack of accountability. The purpose of this study was to examine political violence in Kenya (since 1992) and mitigation mechanisms. The study was anchored on the relative deprivation theory and the conflict transformation theory. An exploratory research design is employed. Qualitative and quantitative studies were included. Only studies written in English, accessible at no cost, and peer-reviewed are included. Additionally, only studies in the past 6 years were considered. Mendeley, Cochrane Library, Google Scholar, and EBSCOhost databases were searched for articles published between 2020 and 2026. Data analysis for the study used Microsoft Excel to organize and interpret relevant data. Results reveal that post-election violence in Kenya develops through structural factors, institutional systems, ethnic groups, and economic conditions. Historical grievances and land disputes exacerbate political violence in Kenya. The institutional frameworks determine political violence in the country. The youth are at the center of political violence in Kenya. The intensity and patterns of post-election violence are determined by contextual factors and local-level dynamics. Civic education, issue-based politics, and inclusive governance are effective methods for implementing disaster response systems. The study concludes that the political violence problem in Kenya requires active solutions that create multiple layers of protection to manage its basic and its immediate conflict drivers. This study recommends that the IEBC should develop better systems for electoral processes that will enhance their transparency and credibility and hold electoral results accountable. Political parties should establish internal democracy systems to reduce ethnic-based voting and promote issue-based manifestos. The ministries of youth affairs, education, and labor should develop youth empowerment programs to create employment opportunities and provide skills training and civic engagement programs to empower the youth. The local community should strengthen its inter-ethnic dialogue forums to involve community leaders, religious organizations, and local peace committees to build social unity and reduce distrust between different groups. Law enforcement agencies should develop their community policing methods and establish linkages with local residents to manage election-related issues.