Voters to shun less-educated politicians By EMEKA-MAYAKA GEKARA for Nation
Less-educated candidates could be locked out of the General Election, according to a survey released on Friday showing that a majority of Kenyans will support only educated candidates and those with a development agenda

It also showed that a significant number will peg their choices on the party’s leader, cash payments and the candidates’ tribal affiliation.

“A majority of the respondents felt that they would consider candidates’ manifestos (78 per cent), followed closely by education background (63.3 per cent),” according to the study conducted by the Jesuit Hakimani Centre between November and December last year in all regions except North Eastern.

According to the survey, residents of Eastern Province, especially in Meru County, Nairobi and Central, would demand cash incentives to vote.

But their counterparts in Nyanza, especially in Siaya County, will be paying attention to the candidates’ academic qualifications.

Dr Dismus Makau, the lead researcher, said the survey was aimed at assessing voters’ preparedness for the election.

“A significant number of voters have formed fears that 2012 may have unhealthy political alliances,” he said at the release of the report during a national conference on the next elections addressed by Vice-President Kalonzo Musyoka on Thursday.. Read more