Kenya’s Fight against Global Terrorism in the Context of Critical Theory: The Case of al-Shabaab

Kenya’s counter-terrorism strategies have progressively depended on securitization and militarism, prompting apprehensions regarding their efficacy and implications for gover-nance, human rights, and societal cohesion. This study utilizes Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA), Critical Theory, and Securitization Theory to investigate how counter-terrorism discourse legitimizes oppressive security measures while sidelining alternative, commu-nity-based methods. The study, through the analysis of policy papers, official reports, and human rights evaluations, reveals that Kenya’s securitized strategy disproportionately af-fects Muslim communities and Somali refugees, thereby consolidating state authority and exacerbating societal tensions. Notwithstanding governmental assertions of success, mili-tary-led counter-terrorism initiatives have not eradicated Al Shabaab’s violent acts, and in several instances, have intensified radicalization. The findings enhance existing literature by emphasizing the importance of rhetoric in legitimizing counter-terrorism strategies and perpetuating systemic disparities. The research indicates that Kenya’s counter-terrorism framework necessitates a transition to human rights-oriented policies, socio-economic ini-tiatives, and community involvement to attain enduring security.