The MPs emphasized that without increased openness and enforcement, public image of politics may deteriorate further, particularly as political races become more fierce.
“Equitable financing and accountability are crucial for leveling the political playing field, particularly for minority and underrepresented groups,” they explained.
As Kenya prepares for the 2027 general elections, MPs are demanding for more control and transparency in political party financing, warning that regulatory inadequacies could jeopardize the country’s democratic integrity.
The request came during the ongoing 2026 legislative retreat in Naivasha, when members questioned the Office of the Registrar of Political Parties (ORPP) about new issues in party regulation, funding, and compliance.
The event highlighted growing worries over political party accountability in the run-up to one of the country’s most contentious election cycles.
According to John Cox Lorionokou, Registrar of Political Parties, Kenya now has 90 fully registered political parties and 32 provisionally registered.While the political environment remains active, he disclosed that two parties, the Ukweli Party and the active Democratic Party, were deregistered earlier this month for failing to meet legislative standards.
Lorionokou also mentioned the emergence of three new parties since the 2022 elections: the Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP), the We Alliance Party (TWAP), and the National Economic Development Party.
In contrast, the Amani National Congress (ANC) announced its voluntary dissolution in 2025.
Legislators recognized that political parties are the foundation of Kenyan democracy, functioning as vehicles for political competition, citizen representation, and governance.
However, persistent compliance gaps, lax enforcement, and insufficient institutional discipline have damaged public trust in the system.
“As we prepare for the next General Elections, we must ensure that political parties operate within the confines of the law, with full transparency in financing and accountability in expenditure,” Robert Mbui, the MP for Kathiani, said.
Mbui emphasized that public trust in democratic processes is primarily dependent on how efficiently party structures are governed.
The conversation focused on a significant operational difficulty.
While the ORPP requires Sh1.6 billion to accomplish its mandate for the fiscal year 2025-26, it has received only Sh508.6 million, leaving a large budget gap that inhibitsCompliance monitoring.
“We have used up our annual allocation and are currently unable to check the offices of 32 provisionally registered political parties, as required by law. “Each verification costs around Sh3.9 million,” Lorionokou noted.
He warned that underfunding affects the ORPP’s ability to properly enforce regulations.
Legislators also expressed worry about equitable party finance, as well as inclusivity in political involvement.
“If we want women, adolescents, and people with disabilities to take on leadership roles in political organizations, we must address the resource issue. “The current model reinforces inequality,” stated Suba North MP Millie Odhiambo.
She emphasized that structural financing limitations impede broad-based representation.
Members also discussed the role of independent candidates, encouraging the ORPP to develop support structures for individuals working outside the mainstreamParty structures.
“Our democracy should be inclusive. “We must not overlook independent candidates who represent Kenyans’ voices outside of mainstream political formations,” stated Marakwet West MP Timothy Torotich.
Toroitich advocated for ways to identify and support independents financially and administratively.
The retreat also discussed the necessity for better auditing of party finances, including donations, expenditures, and internal party accounts.
Lawmakers cautioned that the lack of strong checks could allow party funding to be abused, jeopardizing fair competition and voter trust.
The timing of these exchanges is essential.
With over 120 political entities registered or active in Kenya, and new forms appearing on a regular basis, ensuring compliance before to the 2027 elections is critical.
The MPs emphasized that without increased openness and enforcement, public image of politics may deteriorate further, particularly as political races become more fierce.
“Equitable financing and accountability are crucial for levelling the political playing field, particularly for minority and underrepresented groups,” they added.
With present finance arrangements favoring established parties, smaller and newer organizations sometimes fail to meet legislative requirements or compete successfully during elections.
The leaders made a unified call for the ORPP to be fully funded and empowered to verify party offices, audit financial statements, and monitor compliance rigorously.
They emphasized that political party regulation is more than a legal obligation; it is a democratic protection that protects voters and ensures the integrity of the electoral process.
The MPs believe that transparent finance and robust oversight are critical to preserving Kenya’s democratic integrity and encouraging fair political competitiveness.
