Politics in Kenya are divided almost entirely along ethnic lines. There is also conflict within the ruling party. As distrust between government and opposition increases, so does the political violence. Corruption is another major problem and severe constraints on the economy have left many unemployed. The International Centre continues to monitor the constitutional reform process, support the participation of civil society, and help develop a democratic culture at the governmental and non-governmental levels.
Democratic forces have very little space within which to work.
It is estimated that about 600,000 people have been internally displaced. The transitional government that has been in power for four years continues to face the consequences of the war and genocide and must deal with over 100,000 prisoners suspected of genocide. As in Rwanda, Burundi faces continued conflict. Nevertheless, some progress was achieved in the last few months in the Arusha peace process led by former President of Tanzania Julius Nyere, and formal internal dialogue brings hopes for a more politically stable country. Since then, over seven countries have sent troops to the DRC in what appears to be an African regional war.