Why democracy can't survive without strong parties

Group of people raising ballot box. [GettyImages]

Kenya holds regular elections, has dozens of registered political parties, and prides itself on a competitive multiparty democracy. Yet beneath this apparent vibrancy lies a persistent weakness. Most Kenyan political parties are poorly institutionalised.

They rise and fall with election cycles and revolve around powerful personalities. Democracy depends not just on elections, but on strong, stable, and rule-based political parties. Parties are meant to be enduring institutions that organise political competition, articulate policy alternatives, and connect citizens to the state.