The 1979 election occurred within a timeline shaped by Kenyatta's death and the transition to Moi's leadership. The specific timing and sequence of events that constituted the 1979 election provide context for understanding how the election fit within broader political developments.
August 22, 1978: President Jomo Kenyatta died. Daniel arap Moi automatically became president under constitutional succession provisions. The transition of power occurred smoothly, with the armed forces and state machinery accepting Moi as the new president.
August-October 1978: The Moi government was established, with cabinet appointments made and government structures reorganized. Political prisoners began to be released, signaling Moi's promised policy of reconciliation. The Nyayo philosophy was articulated as the government's political platform.
Early 1979: The Moi government began preparations for the 1979 election. Electoral administrators and KANU party officials organized the electoral process. The government announced that elections would be held in November 1979.
Mid-1979: KANU began organizing primary elections in constituencies across Kenya. Candidates interested in running for Parliament began campaigns for KANU nomination. Sitting MPs assessed their political standing under the new Moi government and decided whether to contest for re-election.
August-September 1979: KANU primary elections took place in constituencies across Kenya. Candidates campaigned in their constituencies, seeking primary election victory. The primary campaigns were competitive in many constituencies, though government influence over some outcomes was evident.
October 1979: Results from primary elections were tabulated and announced. The government confirmed that general elections would be held on November 8, 1979. Campaign activities continued in the period between primaries and the general election.
November 8, 1979: The general election was held. Voters cast ballots for KANU nominees across all constituencies. The voting was peaceful and orderly. Results were tabulated and announced by constituency.
November 1979: Parliamentary composition was determined and announced. The government began preparations for Parliament to be sworn in.
December 1979: Parliament was sworn in. The newly elected Parliament held its first session. The Moi government addressed Parliament, setting out its agenda for the coming parliamentary term.
This timeline shows the sequence of events constituting the 1979 election, from Kenyatta's death through Parliament being sworn in.
See Also
- 1979 Election
- Daniel arap Moi
- 1978 Succession
- 1979 Election KANU Primary
- KANU Party
- Kenya Political System 1978-1991
Sources
- Barkan, Joel. "The Electoral Process in Kenya." African Studies Review, 1976.
- Widner, Jennifer. The Rise of a Party-State in Kenya. University of California Press, 1992.
- Hornsby, Charles. Kenya: A History Since Independence. I.B. Tauris, 2012.