A group of small political parties in Kenya is renewing its call to access the Political Parties Fund. They say the current system is unfair. Over half of Kenya’s 91 registered parties are left out.
The National Liberal Party (NLP), led by Augustus Muli, is leading the coalition. They have petitioned the National Assembly to amend Section 25 of the Political Parties Act, 2011. The goal is to give smaller parties a fair chance to benefit from the fund.
Current Formula Excludes Small Parties
The Political Parties Fund was created to support party operations, campaigns, and civic education. However, the current formula favors larger parties. It considers the number of elected officials a party has. Small parties with few or no elected officials are often left out.
“This system makes it very hard for small parties to grow,” said Muli. “It limits voter choice and weakens democracy.”
Coalition Calls for Change
The coalition wants lawmakers to revise the formula. They argue that all registered parties should have access to funding. A fair distribution would allow smaller parties to build structures, reach voters, and compete effectively.
Political analysts say this move shows frustration among smaller parties. Many have struggled for years due to lack of funding. Changing Section 25, the coalition believes, will create a more inclusive political environment in Kenya.
What Happens Next
The National Assembly has not yet set a date to consider the petition. Experts say the debate could lead to wider reforms in party financing. This could make Kenya’s political system more democratic and participatory.
