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There is a significant interest in the uses and effects of the Internet on politics around the world, including developing countries where its use is still limited but growing. However, despite its significant political potential, the effects of the Internet in developing countries remain minimal because its penetration is almost at an infant stage, poverty, and at times resistance from some political actors who are unsure of its consequences upon their careers. Moreover, the Internet s political uses and effects vary significantly. In essence, the utility accruing from Internet usage depends on individual or institutional rather than collective modes of use. This work offers insights into the uses and effects of the Internet on Kenyan politics, positing that although it has the capacity to affect the way politics is practised, its potential is significantly impeded by numerous factors, among them technological illiteracy, poverty, and technophobia. The arguments advanced in this book should interest not only scholars, and university students but also people and organisations keen on the uses and consequences of the Internet on politics in developing countries.

Autorentext

George Nyabuga, PhD, is the Managing Editor, Weekend Editions and Media Convergence, at The Standard Group in Nairobi, Kenya. He has a PhD in Politics, History and Media from Coventry University. An award-winning journalist, Nyabuga has also taught media and cultural studies, communication, journalism, and politics in the UK and Kenya.