10. News Media and Elections’ Communication in East Africa: Implications for Peace Sustainability

Most post independent African countries have complex political histories characterised by peace, violent conflicts, and serious human rights violations. These complex histories have led to persistence of transitional justice issues, impeding stability in societies. While regular elections are central to democratic governance, they are often contested, placing immense political pressure on social institutions like the news media. The news media are vulnerable to manipulation and cannot keep the public informed and engaged. News media and journalists often face manipulation, ownership influences, and intimidation, stifling diversity, critical reporting, and public engagement. Nevertheless, news media framing of issues influences public perception and engagement in democratic processes. The dynamic political processes in Africa and in Kenya are further reshaped by rapid changes in media and communication systems—the increasing use of online media platforms and the different ways citizens interact with available media platforms. This chapter highlights the influence of citizen media practices on political environment of peace and conflicts especially during elections. However, their influence is often overlooked in discussions about media’s role in elections and peace. The everyday citizen media practices allow grassroots to share their peace and political narratives. These practices can enhance or undermine goals for peace because of other salient social factors such as corrosive ethnic discourse and polarised public debates. In broader view, amplified grassroots’ media practices have the potential to enrich or weaken established conflict resolution systems, and the means to address common causes. This study concludes that the growing use of online media platforms by both individuals and organised groups to (co)-create and access news and participate in civic activities has significant consequences for peace. Thus, citizen media actions are contributing to knowledge production, and giving voice to the grassroots. And in the process, they play a critical role in shaping the socio-political environment, influencing both peace and conflict outcomes. Therefore, the study emphasises a critical analysis of the interplay of social processes, media access and use, and peace communication.