DOI: 10.36347/sjahss.2017.v05i03.012

Pages: 217-224

This study was a comparative analysis on the effects of co-opting traditional institutions in state politics focusing on the periods 2002-2008 and 2009-2013 in Mashonaland Central Province in Zimbabwe. The study employed a mixed method approach combining questionnaires with community members, focus group discussions with traditional chief`s council members and in-depth interviews with traditional chiefs. The findings indicate that co-option of traditional institutions in politics negatively affect community peace. The study recommended that traditional institutions should remain apolitical in order to promote peaceful co-existence.