As Kenya prepares for the 2027 general elections, the country's political landscape has become increasingly competitive, with over 100 political parties now registered. This surge in registrations has raised questions about the role of political parties in Kenya's democracy. Analysts argue that many of these parties are not founded on long-term ideologies or policies, but rather serve as temporary vehicles for leaders to secure direct tickets, influence decisions, and increase their political power.
According to Prof. XN Iraki of the University of Nairobi, owning a political party has become a lucrative business in Kenya. "Owning a party is now a symbol of prestige and a source of income," he said. "During candidate nominations, party certificates are issued for payment, and those seeking office pay high nomination fees, making parties a significant source of revenue." Iraki added that many parties are used for a single election before being abandoned by their leaders.
Lawyer and political analyst Steve Kabita agrees that owning a party provides politicians with a guarantee of a seat at the negotiating table and protects them from nomination disputes. "A party leader has significant influence in political negotiations," he said. "Many politicians avoid the risk of being denied a ticket by starting or owning their own parties." Additionally, parties can generate funds through the Political Parties Fund, which is financed by taxpayers.
However, experts warn that this trend could undermine Kenya's democracy. Prof. Tom Nyamache of Turkana University said that when parties become commercialized, policies and manifestos lose meaning. "When parties become a means of personal gain, ideologies are pushed aside, and manifestos become empty promises," he said. Former Mukurwe-ini MP Kabando wa Kabando also cautioned that Kenya needs robust parties that can unite citizens nationally, rather than vehicles for individual interests.
The rush to form new parties has intensified, with several leaders preparing for the 2027 elections. Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna has already secured the name of the Linda Mwananchi party, while Siaya Governor James Orengo announced plans to launch his own party. Other newly registered parties include the Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) linked to former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.
The Registrar of Political Parties, John Cox Lorionokou, has warned that he will inspect the headquarters and branches of these parties to ensure they comply with the law. Parties without offices in at least 24 counties risk being barred from participating in the 2027 elections. As the elections approach, it appears that the registration of new parties is driven not only by democracy or political ideology but also by ambition, money, and influence.
The trend has sparked concerns about the future of Kenya's party system. Experts warn that without significant reforms, the country may end up with hundreds of parties that exist only in name and lack real influence over citizens. The Political Parties Act stipulates that parties should not only nominate candidates during elections but also develop public policies, educate voters on national issues, and support good governance.
Key points
- Over 100 political parties have been registered in Kenya as the 2027 elections approach.
- Many parties are seen as temporary vehicles for leaders to secure power and influence rather than being founded on long-term ideologies or policies.
- Experts warn that the commercialization of parties could undermine Kenya's democracy and lead to a system where parties exist only in name.
