Idiosyncratic Variables As Determinants Of Kenya’S Foreign Policy: A Case Study Of Mwai Kibaki, 2002-2013

Abstract

This study examines the impact of idiosyncratic traits of President Mwai Kibaki on Kenya’s foreign policy during his administration, 2002 - 2013. The main research question that guided the study was; in what ways did Kibaki’s idiosyncrasies impact on Kenya’s foreign policy formulation and conduct during his administration? The major hypothesis guiding the study was that individual personality traits of a leader often impacts formulation and conduct of a country’s foreign policy. The study employed longitudinal case study research design. Non-probabilistic sampling methods were used to collect primary data whilst secondary data was gathered from the existing literature. The collected data was analysed largely through qualitative approaches. The main finding of the study was that Kibaki’s idiosyncratic traits influenced Kenya’s foreign policy behaviour in the period stated. The study made the following specific findings: Kibaki’s social/ academic background shaped his individual worldview; Kibaki’s belief system influenced him to pursue national interest; Kibaki’s age endowed him with superior judgment, analytical capabilities, calculative, strategic and nonemotive in decision making; and fears about Kibaki’s health status proved to be a weak link in Kenya’s foreign policy. Based on these findings, the study concludes that taken collectively, the idiosyncratic traits of a leader influences the foreign policy of a state. The study, therefore, recommends that foreign policy practitioners endeavour to understand the idiosyncratic traits of leaders, especially from developing states, so as to be able to forge meaningful foreign policy engagements. Further, academic inquiry on personal traits of potential future leaders be conducted to allow for better understanding on the possible influence of their idiosyncrasies on a country’s foreign policy.