Assessing the Role of the KDF Balancing Between State Security and Human Security in Intrastate Violence: A Case of Mt. Elgon, Kenya

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to assess the role of KDF in balancing between state and human security in intrastate conflict with particular reference to the Mt Elgon region of Kenya between the years 2006-2008. The specific objectives of this study were: to evaluate the role of the Kenya Defense Forces (KDF) in balancing the human security against intra-state violence; to assess the role of Kenya Defense Forces (KDF) in balancing the state security against intra-state violence and to examine the challenges faced by Kenya Defense Forces (KDF) in balancing State and Human security against intra-state violence in Mt Elgon region in Kenya. Guided by the realism theory, the study employed cross sectional descriptive research design. The research design in this study was a case study, methodology was described by research design, the area of study, study population, sampling strategy and sampling size, data collection, reliability and validity of data instruments, data analysis and ethical considerations. Multiple sampling procedures were used to obtain a sample size of 144 respondents from the target population of local area residents, the police, military, NGOs and widows. Primary data was obtained using a structured questionnaire with both closed and open-ended questions. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyze the data and presented using percentages, tables and charts. The study findings revealed that there was no relationship between the role the Kenya Defense Forces (KDF) played in protecting state and human security during the Mt Elgon clashes in 2006/2008. It was also noted that KDF “Okoa Nchi” Operation was associated with human rights violation incidences rather than protecting the victims. Moreover, it was established that the inability to confiscate illegal fire arms from local communities was the main challenge and that this inability was caused as a result of poor operation frameworks and lack of partnership with community members. Therefore, it was recommended that for KDF to enhance public confidence by reviewing their operation policies, it should emphasize on community partnerships, comply with human rights and United Nations policies during peace keeping missions particularly in internal security operations.