The USA is currently preparing to have national presidential elections in November 3rd. On the other hand, Kenya will hold national elections in 2022. Here are a few lessons that Kenyans should learn from Americans:
1. Politicians can vie for presidential elections for one term
In 2008, the main Presidential candidates were Barack Obama and John McCain. President Obama won. Four years later, the contestants were President Obama and Mitt Romney, where Obama retained his seat. Afterwards Donald Trump vied against Hillary Clinton and won. In this years’ election, Trump is contesting against Joe Biden.
On the other hand, we have had same politicians vying for elections since independence. New faces in Kenyan politics are rarely seen.
2. Political Parties can be more than vehicles to land politicians to seats.
In the Us, there are two main political parties, the Democratic and Republican parties. These parties were formed in the 19th century and are still functional. They have consistent leadership ideologies. In addition, they have a dynamic leadership and hold nominations every time before national elections. No political aspirant can claim ownership of these parties.
Taking a look at the Kenyan situation, we have had hundreds of Political parties since independence. Presidential aspirants form parties to enable them to land them in the offices. If they fail, they abandon them and look for a new party that might give results to their desires.
3. Political Campaigns can happen without Rallies and Huge Crowds.
In the US, the main campaign strategy is Presidential debates. During these debates, the aspirants present their agendas and manifesto. They can also answer and criticize each other to their best. However, these debates are monitored and moderated.
Back in Kenya, political aspirants pull huge rallies where they face their opponents, call each other names and brand each other. National debates are not something that many can reckon with. These crowds become quite restless, charged and rallies turn out to be stone throwing festivals. Confrontations with the police follow. Needless to say, violence start here.
4. Presidential Elections can be held without Rigging
During elections in the US there are both public votes and electoral college votes. These determine who wins in the Presidential race. For decades, these elections have been held without allegations of rigging. Most losers in these elections come out to congratulate their winning rivals without causing drama.
Contrary, virtually all presidential elections have disputed results. Since independence, losers of presidential bid do not accept the results. There are rampant allegations of election rigging, in which most come out to be true. This has plunged the country into countless instances of violence, property destruction and displacement of people.
There are indeed many lessons Kenyans can learn from US politics that would improve how Kenyans act during these times. It is our hope that Kenyans learn.
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