Impact of Neopatrimonialism on the Church and Politics in Kenya between 2017 and 2022 Elections
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.53819/81018102t4313Abstract
This paper discusses concept of neopatrimonialism, based on Max Weber’s concept of legal-rational bureaucracy. Neopatrimonialism is regarded as a dominant feature of the developing countries of Africa, being seen as a core feature of local politics in Sub-Saharan Africa. The discussion of neopatrimonialism in Kenya was derived from the experiences of post-colonial oppression and autocracy from the dominant political regime. The author sought to study the impact of neopatrimonialism on the church and politics in Kenya between 2017 and 2022 elections. The researcher sought to answer four questions: How has neopatrimonialism influenced political parties (by) elections in Kenya? How has neopatrimonialism influenced the church and its leaders? In what ways does election of clan leaders influence on neopatrimonialism? Lastly, the researcher sought to find out how accessing funds for development is influenced by neopatrimonialism. Related influences included defective political economic systems, popularly referred to as ‘vampire states of Africa, signing pacts with huge donors in the name of foundations, award of favours for positions of political influence. On church influence, the researcher looked at three mainstream churches: The Anglican Church, Presbyterian Church and the Catholic Church. The researcher discussed the politics of land acquisition and ownership. Findings revealed that donor relations and donor priorities influenced how development organizations accessed funds for development. It was found that the judicial system’s lack of autonomy exposed it to manipulation by the state hence making flawed rulings that affect equitable allocation of funds for development. This study adopted Cooperative game theory, premordialism theory, constructivist theory and instrumentalism theory. The researcher employed exploratory research design to help her probe further the study area. As a mitigation towards overcoming neopatrimonial regimes, the researcher suggested serious advocacy campaigns by prioritizing education, legislation and empowerment of state organs that deal with corruption.
Keywords: Neopatrimonialism, Ethnicity, Elections patrimonial and legal-rational bureaucratic domination, regimes, rent seeking, integration
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