When a Former President Becomes a Peacemaker
In a surprising turn of events, Kenya's former president, Uhuru Kenyatta, has found himself at the center of South Africa's turbulent 2024 election. His involvement, which began as a discreet diplomatic effort, has evolved into a critical factor in guiding the country through one of its most challenging democratic exercises since the end of apartheid. This article explores how Kenyatta, once regarded as a controversial figure in his own country, has become an unexpected hero in South Africa's struggle to preserve the stability and integrity of its democracy.
A Turbulent Prelude
To understand Kenyatta's role, one must first grasp the tense situation in South Africa leading up to the election. The country, still scarred by the wounds of the apartheid era, has faced a series of crises: an economy crippled by power outages and global uncertainty, rising unemployment—especially among the youth—and growing frustration over corruption and the failure to deliver basic services.
These problems were exacerbated by an increasingly polarized political discourse. The ruling African National Congress (ANC), under pressure from both internal factions and opposition parties such as the Democratic Alliance (DA) and the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), resorted to increasingly divisive rhetoric. Accusations of election fraud, inflammatory speeches about race and land, and even hints of violence began to characterize the election campaign.
It was in this context that Uhuru Kenyatta, who had stepped down as Kenya’s president in 2022, was drawn into the picture.
Kenyatta’s First Step: A Discreet Diplomatic Effort
Kenyatta’s involvement began in January 2024, following a request from the African Union (AU). His experience in navigating Kenya’s own turbulent elections—particularly the contested 2017 election and the remarkably peaceful transfer of power in 2022—made him a natural choice for a discreet diplomatic role.
«President Kenyatta has shown that he can put the nation’s interests above his own,” said a senior AU official who wished to remain anonymous. “His handling of the post-2017 election situation, and his willingness to enter into a ‘handshake’ agreement with opposition leader Raila Odinga, prevented what could have become a catastrophic conflict.»
Kenyatta began by meeting with leaders from all the major South African parties behind closed doors. His message was simple: regardless of political differences, they had to commit to a peaceful and transparent electoral process. “He reminded us that we are all South Africans first,” said an ANC parliamentarian. “He said the world is watching us—not just as a country, but as a symbol of Africa’s democratic potential.”
From Diplomat to Mediator
Kenyatta’s role shifted from discreet to directly visible in March 2024, when violent clashes broke out in the KwaZulu-Natal province. Tensions between ANC factions and supporters of former president Jacob Zuma—who still holds significant influence in the region—boiled over. There were fears that the violence could spread and threaten the very integrity of the election.
In a surprising move, Kenyatta personally traveled to the province. He met with Zuma, current ANC leaders, and local traditional authorities. Details of what was discussed remain confidential, but the outcome was remarkable. A “peace pact” was announced, with all parties committing to tone down the rhetoric and refrain from violence.
“What Kenyatta did in KwaZulu-Natal was extraordinary,” said Professor Nomsa Maseko of the University of the Witwatersrand. “He leveraged his status as a respected former head of state and his understanding of the complexities of African politics. He didn’t just speak to politicians—he spoke to the heart of communities.”
Kenyatta and the Electoral Infrastructure
With peace secured in KwaZulu-Natal, Kenyatta turned his attention to the election itself. He met with the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) and shared insights from Kenya’s use of technology in elections. Despite some setbacks, Kenya has been a pioneer in using biometric systems and digital transmissions to safeguard electoral integrity.
Under Kenyatta’s guidance, and with support from both the AU and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the IEC strengthened its systems. This included improved biometric voter registration, real-time results reporting, and measures to counter online misinformation.
“President Kenyatta’s contribution was invaluable,” said the head of the IEC. “His insights into both the technical and human aspects of election administration helped us build a system that is not only efficient, but also trusted by the public.”
Kenyatta and the Media: The Fight Against Misinformation
One of the most surprising aspects of Kenyatta’s engagement was his work with South African media. He organized a series of workshops with journalists, editors, and social media influencers, drawing on his own experience of how misinformation nearly destabilized Kenya in 2017.
“He told us that in a polarized society, even small errors or biased reports can trigger violence,” said a prominent South African journalist. “He urged us to see our role not just as reporters, but as guardians of democracy.”
This led to a remarkable “Pact of Truth” signed by major media organizations, in which they committed to fact-checking, balanced coverage, and the prompt correction of errors. Social media platforms, under pressure from both Kenyatta and local groups, also implemented stricter measures against misinformation.
Election Day and Its Aftermath
When election day arrived in May 2024, the atmosphere was tense but peaceful. Thanks to the improved systems, the process was largely smooth. Minor irregularities were quickly addressed, and results began to flow in without major delays or controversies.
When it became clear that no party would secure an absolute majority, Kenyatta stepped in once again. He facilitated talks between the parties, urging them to form a unity government that reflects the nation’s diversity. “He made us realize that a divided South Africa cannot handle the challenges we are facing,” said an EFF official.
The result was a surprising coalition that included elements from the ANC, the DA, and smaller parties. The EFF, while remaining outside the government, entered into a “stability pact” in which they pledged constructive opposition. Kenyatta, who led the final press conference before returning to Kenya, called it “a first step toward a new politics of national unity.”
Lessons from an Unexpected Hero
Uhuru Kenyatta’s role in South Africa’s 2024 election is a reminder that, in democracy’s fragile moments, unexpected heroes can emerge. A leader who left his own presidency under controversy found a form of redemption by helping another nation through a democratic crisis.
His efforts underscore several critical lessons. First, that Africa’s challenges often require African solutions. Kenyatta’s understanding of regional dynamics and personal relationships was crucial. Second, that technology and media—when handled correctly—can strengthen rather than undermine democracy. And third, that even in the most polarized environments, dialogue and compromise are possible when leaders put the nation’s interests first.
Kenyatta’s efforts highlight several key takeaways. First, Africa’s most pressing challenges are often best addressed through African-led solutions—his deep understanding of regional dynamics and personal diplomacy proved vital. Second, when responsibly managed, technology and media can serve as pillars of democratic resilience rather than threats to it. And third, even in highly polarized contexts, meaningful dialogue and compromise remain possible when leaders prioritize the greater national interest over partisan gain.
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