The Realism of Political Issues in Swahili Moral Novels in the East African Context

Abstract: This article explores the realism of political issues in moral novels in the East African context. Primary data were collected from Swahili moral novels. A purposive sampling method was applied to select two moral novels, Kusadikika and Kufikirika, written by Shaaban Robert, a renowned author in the history of Swahili literature in East Africa. Close reading was conducted to obtain primary data to align with the main research objective. Secondary sources obtained through library research were employed to verify the primary data. The findings are presented descriptively, and the theory of Realism was applied to analyse the selected texts. The study demonstrated a reflection of the actual political issues within the chosen novels. Key issues highlighted in the conversation include the effects of poor governance, the importance of visiting other nations, adherence to the law, and the strengthening of national cohesion. The article suggests further research on economic themes in Shaaban Robert’s novels. Keywords: Realism, Politics, Swahili Novel, Moral Novel, Realism Theory. Title: The Realism of Political Issues in Swahili Moral Novels in the East African Context Author: Gerephace Mwangosi International Journal of Novel Research in Humanity and Social Sciences ISSN 2394-9694 Vol. 12, Issue 5, September 2025 - October 2025 Page No: 8-15 Novelty Journals Website: www.noveltyjournals.com Published Date: 08-September-2025 DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.17079006 Paper Download Link (Source) https://www.noveltyjournals.com/upload/paper/The%20Realism%20of%20Political%20Issues-08092025-6.pdf