Mediation and Negotiation as STM Rategies of Conflict Resolution: A Case Study of 2007/2008 Post-Election Violence in Kenya

This paper explores the use of mediation and negotiation as a strategy of conflict resolution in the case of Kenya 2007/2008 post-election violence crisis. The rationale behind this study was that mediation and negotiation as a conflict resolution strategy has been used in different conflicts such as Colombia, Syria, Yemen, Libya, and Somalia without success. On the other hand, mediation and negotiation was used successfully in South Sudan, but it did not bring everlasting peace in the country. Where mediation and negotiation are not applied, other conflict resolution strategies such as international pressure, sanctions and military intervention have been used to topple dictatorial regimes. However, sanctions and military interventions do not bring lasting peace and stability. This research work, therefore, engaged in an investigative case study to examine factors that led to successful use of mediation and negotiation as a conflict resolution strategy in Kenya 2007/2008 post-election, which brought immediate and long-term political, economic and social stability. To answer the research questions and achieve its objectives, a mixed methodology approach was used. Quantitative data was collected from 89 PEV victims while qualitative data was collected from previous works and from senior officials in the Interior Ministry and Kenya National Commission of Human Rights. The research was supported by two relevant theories; conflict and realist theories. The results showed that mediation and negotiation process led by Kofi Annan resulted into political, social and economic stability in the country concluding that mediation and negotiation strategies were suitable for conflict resolutions. This study recommends further research to explore the reasons that cause failure or success of mediation and negotiation as a conflict resolution strategy elsewhere. It also recommends that the government and stakeholders should institute mediation and negotiation programs across the country to help in solving local disputes such as cattle rustling, land and boundary, as well as tribal motivated disputes.