The Role of African Peer Review Mechanism (APRM) In Kenya’s Democratization Process: A Case Study of Kenya (2003-2017)

African Peer Review Mechanism (APRM) under New Partnership for Africa’s Development (NEPAD) was established to promote democracy and good governance in Africa. World over Peer Review have been conducted on mutual trust and good faith as in the case of the European Union (EU) where it identifies main pathologies affecting the integrity of electoral process in member countries. In East Africa, peer review is carried out through the East African Protocol on Governance which puts emphasis on strengthening democracy for regional integration. This study investigates the influence of APRM on electoral democracy in Kenya. The study was motivated by the fact that although Kenya has undergone two APRM self-assessment processes, electoral violence still bedevils the country. The general objective of the study is to investigate the influence of African Peer Review Mechanisms on electoral democracy in Kenya from 2003 to 2017. The Specific objectives are to: Examine the nature and extent of APRM with regard to electoral democracy in Kenya since 2003; (assess the effects of APRM on electoral democracy in Kenya; evaluate the opportunities and challenges of APRM in the promotion of electoral democracy in Kenya. The study is anchored on institutional liberalism theory and postcolonial theory. The study employs a mixed research methodology that combines both qualitative and quantitative data. The data was analyzed through content analysis and descriptive statistics. The results are presented in chapter 4. The major finding is that APRM system is not effective enough to promise greater electoral practices and standards in Kenya. More, therefore, needs to be done to ensure institutionalization of democratic ideals in the electoral process.