Why campaign financing aids graft cartels in government

Transparency International Executive Director Samuel Kimeu. (Photo: Willis Awandu/Standard)

Utterances on the campaign trail in recent weeks have brought to the fore an important issue we are yet to confront effectively as a country – the role of money in influencing electoral outcomes. Elections are no doubt becoming more expensive and candidates have to resort to all means to raise the much needed cash to fund their campaigns. The contributions of individuals and the private sector have attained prominence in funding campaigns.

There is nothing wrong with contributing to political campaigns. In fact, many see this as an extension of the fundamental right to self-expression. The challenge is however when such contributions are at a level that could influence not just the outcome of the elections, but the choices of those funded after assuming office, or from illicit sources.