The Political Role Of Elected Leaders In Taming The Kerio Valley Crisis

Abstract

ABSTRACT The inter-communal conflicts in Kerio Valley have affected decision making in the country and has had long-term implications for the communities and the country as a whole. The communities have their own specific rights of why they fight hence deserve attention in scholarship observation, not only in terms of lacking development but also in terms of their frontier effect. The main purpose of this study was to determine the political role of elected leaders in taming the Kerio Valley crisis. The study was guided by the following specific objectives: effect of Disarmament of the Kerio Valley bandits on the ultimate restoration of peace in the region, the root causes of the lawlessness in the region and the possibility of the local political-rivalry playing part in catalyzing the Kerio Valley crisis. The study focused on the hotspot of Kerio Valley conflicts mostly inhabited by Pokot and Marakwet communities. The target population was 2000 community members and the region leaders. The sample size of this research was two hundred (200) respondents out of the total population of 2000 members. The sample size was drawn from the target population based on the principle of 10% rule. Data that was collected was obtained from primary sources. Primary data was collected through Questionnaires. Focused group discussions were held to elicit information from county leaders. This study adopted a descriptive research design. Quantitative and qualitative data was collected from the field. Quantitative data was organized into themes basing on research objectives. The quantitative data were presented in percentages and frequencies in form of charts and graphs for presentation and clarity of meaning. Ethical issues were considered when