A Deconstruction of Strategic Linguistic Elements Used to Invoke Gender and Power During Debate in Busia County Assembly, Kenya

Abstract

This study set out to establish manner in which linguistic elements are used to invoke gender and subsequently bargain for power during County Assembly debates. The objective of this study is to analyze the effects of linguistic elements employed to bargain for the dynamics of power and invoke gender during debate. The study employed the Critical Discourse Analysis theory (CDA). Current literature has been reviewed for the purpose of identifying areas that have been studied and the gaps existing with the intent of filling them up. The study involved collecting linguistic data from the assembly as recorded in the Hansard and audio recordings of assembly proceedings. The data has been analyzed according to the objective, been described and relationships - between speakers, choice of discourse and discourse function have been explained. The study targeted a population of 53 Members of the County Assembly from Busia. Linguistic techniques that refer to gender have been discussed and their effect on listeners and subsequent speakers analyzed. Conclusions have been drawn and recommendations made. On the whole, there is a harmonious and healthy linguistic relationship in the county assembly. However, more elected women would bolster their agenda and increase their participation towards the move to achieving gender parity in terms of representation.